President Bola Tinubu has extended his condolences to the government and people of the Islamic Republic of Iran over the death of President Ebrahim Raisi and Iranian foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian.
They were killed in a helicopter crash in the mountainous area of north-western Iran on Sunday.
In a statement on Monday by his spokesman Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu expressed profound grief over the tragedy and described Raisi as a leader who was passionately committed to the development of Iran.
“While commiserating with the bereaved families, President Tinubu prays for the continuous peace, stability, and prosperity of the Iranian nation.
“On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, the President assures the Islamic Republic of Nigeria’s support and prayers in this moment of grief,” the statement said.
Vice-President Mohammad Mokhber has been appointed to assume interim duties after the president’s death.
Mr Mokhber will work with the heads of Iran’s legislature and judiciary to prepare for a presidential election within 50 days – a period of time set out in Iran’s constitution for replacing a president who dies in office.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has since announced five days of mourning.
