President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sadness over the passing of his long-time friend and associate Isma’ila Isa Funtua.
Funtua who was life patron of the International Press Institute (IPI) and the Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN) died on Monday night.
In a condolence message by his spokesman Garba Shehu, the president condoled family members, government and people of Katsina State and all associates of Funtua, especially the media industry on the loss.
He said the late Funtua was “greatly admired and respected” and that the demise of the publisher and businessman has created a huge gap.
He added that “Funtua consistently stood by him in his political journey’’.
Buhari prayed for the repose of Funtua’s soul and strength for the family to bear the loss.
Atiku, on his part, wrote on Twitter: “On behalf of my family, I convey my deepest condolences to the Funtua family over the loss of its patriarch, Ismaila lsa Funtua.
“May Allah forgive his sins and grant him Aljannah Firdaus. I pray for the needed comfort and strength for his family, friends and associates to bear the loss.”
In a Twitter thread, former Senate President Bukola Saraki condoled Buhari on the loss of Funtua, describing him as a “fountain of wisdom”.
“As a valued associate of my late father, Alhaji Funtua always made himself available as a fountain of wisdom,” he wrote.
“He was always ready to offer his advice and give a fresh perspective to issues. I will miss him and the country will miss a detribalised Nigerian and symbol of national unity that he was.
“My condolences go to his family, his associates, the people and government of Katsina State and the entire country. May Almighty Allah (SWT) forgive his sins and grant him a place in Aljannah Firdaus.”
