Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on Sunday lamented the demise of Ogiame Atuwatse II, the Olu of Warri and said the nation has lost a rare gem and an exceptional monarch.

Saraki in a statement on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sanni Onogu, in Abuja, said the passage of the Olu of Warri was painful but quick to admit that death is an inevitable end for all mortals.

He stated that the Ogiame Atuwatse's passage is coming one month and six days after the death of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuade, Olubuse II, ((in Osun State on July 28.

Saraki noted that the late Olu of Warri lived an exemplary life worthy of emulation. "As a learned legal luminary, he served in various capacities before he was enthroned as a traditional ruler. He placed priority on the welfare and well-being of his subjects. He lived a life full of service to God and humanity as a faithful Christian and lover of God. We shall surely miss him," he said.

The President of the Senate commiserated with the Royal family of the Ogiame Atuwatse, Warri Traditional Council, government and people of Delta State.

He urged them to take solace in the fact that late Ogiame Atuwatse II lived a selfless and fulfilled life adding that those he left behind should strive to sustain his worthy legacies.

Saraki called on the government and the people of Delta State to immortalize the late Olu of Warri as an honour to dignify his noble deeds while on earth just as he prayed God to grant the soul of the departed eternal rest.