Former President Goodluck Jonathan has mourned the death of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing him as a great African patriot and a symbol of the democratic fight across the continent.
Jonathan, in a message titled “Adieu H.E. Raila Odinga” released on his official X account on Thursday, offered glowing tribute to the late Kenyan statesman, hailing him for his courage, resilience, and unshakable devotion to African democracy.
Chronicle NG reports that Odinga, 80, died in India after collapsing during a morning walk, leading to widespread mourning across Kenya and the continent.
Jonathan reflected on Odinga’s legacy, describing him as a leader who prioritized service before self and personified the dream of a united, progressive Africa.
“I am saddened by the news of the passing of H.E. Raila Odinga, former Prime Minister of Kenya and a distinguished African statesman whose life symbolized resilience, courage, and democratic struggle in Africa.
“Kenya has lost a patriot, and our continent has lost a great leader, one who understood that leadership is not about self, but about service; who believed and looked forward to Africa’s greatness and ascendancy,” the statement partly read.
The former Nigerian president also lauded Odinga as a fellow supporter of democracy and a passionate pan-Africanist whose impact would continue to resound throughout generations.
He prayed that history would remember Odinga favorably and that his legacy would continue to inspire Africans.
“I honor him not just as a brother in the cause of democracy, but as a committed pan-Africanist whose light will continue to shine.
“May history remember him kindly, and may Africa continue to be blessed by his hope, wisdom, and sacrifice,” Jonathan’s statement concluded.
