Former Senate President Describes Mantu’s Death As Huge Loss

By Bello Usman

Nigeria’s one time President of the Senate, David Mark has expressed shock and sadness over the demise of former Deputy President of the Senate, Ibrahim Mantu, saying “It is devastating and a loss to the political class”.

Reacting to Mantu’s death which reportedly occurred in the early hours of Tuesday in Abuja, Senator Mark lamented that the former lawmaker died at a time when his wealth of experience, wisdom and services were most needed to navigate through the murky political terrain.

In a press release signed by his Media Aide; Paul Mumeh, the former Senate boss said “Mantu was a flamboyant leader who brought panache, character and sagacity to the political space.”

According to Mark, “In Mantu, I have lost a friend, brother and compatriot who believed in the sanctity of our unity and ideals of nationhood.

“Mantu played a politics of inclusiveness, fairness, equity and justice . He was a politician who built bridges of understanding across the length and breadth of Nigeria.

“He was a political leader of high repute. He stood to be counted when it mattered. His death is indeed one too many. He will sorely be missed.

“I am however consoled that Mantu lived an exemplary life worthy of emulation.”

Senator Mark prayed that God in His infinite mercies would grant the late Mantu eternal rest and his family the fortitude to bear the loss.

The late Ibrahim Mantu who hailed from Plateau State was elected Senate Deputy President under the then ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in 2001 and held the position till 2007 after which he did not return to the Senate again.