Nigerians have taken to social media to mourn the passing of Mallam Abba Kyari, the Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari on 17 April 2020.
Kyari died from coronavirus after battling the virus for many weeks.
Tributes have began to pour in for him especially on social media from governors, ministers and millions of Nigerians across the world.
Condoling with the family on Twitter, Governor Godwin Obaseki wrote, “I received the news of the death of Mallam Abba Kyari with a heavy heart. We have indeed lost a rare gem. As Chief of Staff to President Buhari, Mallam Abba Kyari commanded great influence that made him a rallying point for key policy decisions. He would be missed greatly.
Festus Keyamo, Minister of State, Labour and Employment said Kyari was in great spirits the last time they communicated. “When I chatted with him exactly on Tuesday, March 24, 2020, he assured me his health was fine and that he would faithfully take the treatments. But God always knows best. Sincere condolences to the Kyari family and government of Nigeria. Adieu Mallam Abba Kyari.
Senator Ben Murray-Bruce said he was saddened by the news. “I am saddened by the news of the death of Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari. My sincere condolences to the family and loved ones, and also President Buhari. May his soul rest in peace.”
Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika said, “Everyone has his time. We are all waiting for our time. May Allah forgive your sins, grant you Firdaws. Allah ya kyauta bayan shi. Allah accept our souls when you are most pleased with us.”
Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Isa Pantami, “May the Almighty Allah forgive and be Merciful to Malam Abba Kyari (Chief of Staff to the President). May He (SWT) bless us with a good end.”
A statement issued by the Presidency said the burial announcements will be made soon. “The Presidency regrets to announce the passage of the Chief of Staff to the President, Mallam Abba Kyari.
“The deceased had tested positive to the ravaging COVID-19, and had been receiving treatment. But he died on Friday, April 17, 2020.
“May God accept his soul.
“Funeral arrangements will be announced shortly”.