Date: 2012-01-09

Immediate past governor of Kwara State and Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Dr. Bukola Saraki, Sunday appealed to all stakeholders in the Nigeria project to toe the line of dialogue and constructive engagement rather than violence.

Saraki made this submission in Ilorin yesterday, during a condolence visit to the family of Muhideen Mustapha, who was killed during the fuel subsidy protest in Ilorin last week.

Saraki described the death of Muyideen at such a tender age as a colossal loss to the state and the country.

He urged that only peaceful dialogue and understanding between government and labour can avert further loss of life of innocent citizens. Saraki condemned the killing of Muyideen in strong terms and praised the state government for ordering immediate investigation into the matter. “The perpetrator”, he said, “should be brought to book.”

Saraki appealed to security agents to be more circumspect in handling issues such as protest, as peaceful protest is a legitimate means by citizens to support or caution government.

The Senator, who was represented at the visit by the Chairman, Local Government Service Commission, Suleiman Kayode Yusuf, prayed Allah to grant the deceased Aljanat Fridaous and the family the fortitude to bear the loss.

Responding on behalf of the family, Saka Opobiyi, and Abubakar Oke-Odo thanked Dr. Saraki for the visit, describing the death of their son as destined by God.
Leading a prayer session for the repose of the soul of the deceased, an Ilorin based Islamic scholar, Sheikh Hidir Azukuti described death as inevitable to every living soul, irrespective of social status, colour or creed.

Sheikh Azukuti prayed Allah to grant the deceased eternal rest and grant the family the courage to put the agony behind them.