The chairman, Senate Committee on Environment and Ecology, Senator Bukola Saraki, expressed sadness over the passing of Dikko.

Saraki, in a condolence message issued in Ilorin yesterday, said: "I am deeply saddened by the news of the death of a renowned politician and elder statesman, Mr. Umaru Dikko. "Umaru Dikko's years of service and dedication to his father land will be remembered for years to come. He will be sorely missed by his family, friends and well wishers.

"I extend my sincere condolence to the government, the Emir of Zaria and the people of Kaduna State; his wisdom no doubt would have gone a long way to better the affairs of a few at this dire time when his people need him most.

"I pray that Allah will grant his family the patience and the fortitude to bear this loss." Also, the speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon. Rasaq Atunwa condoled with the people of Kaduna State over the death of Dikko.

Atunwa, in a condolence message signed by his Media Assistant, Alhaji AbdulRahman Sanni, said that the elder statesman died at the time the Nigeria would be need his fatherly advice in moving the country forward.

He said that, there was no doubt that the late former Minister of Transport lived a fulfilled life in view of his contributions to the socio-economic and political development of the nation.