Soun, Atiku Mourn Ahmed Joda

Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade III and former vice president Ahaji Atiku Abubakar have described the passing of former Super Permanent Secretary and elderstatesman, Alhaji Ahmed Joda

Soun describe Joda’s death as a huge loss to the nation.

Acknowledging his age-long friendship with the deceased, the nonagenerian monarch described the late Joda as a dependable and selfless friend, adding that the late statesmen was a man of honour and integrity.

The first-class traditional ruler, while stressing that the late statesman made invaluable contributions to nation building in various capacities, urged leaders to emulate the patriotic attributes of the deceased.

In a condolence message personally signed by Oba Oyewumi, he said, “I mourn the demise of a dependable friend and former federal Super Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Ahmed Joda.

” Our relationship dates back to the early sixties.

“He always demonstrated true and committed friendship. He was forthright, disciplined, courageous, urbane and highly detrabilized.

“I am certain my friend lived a purposeful life and left behind good legacies”.

While commiserating with the government and people of Adamawa state, especially the Joda family, the monarch prayed to Allah to grant the deceased Al-Jannah Firdaus.

He also extended his condolences to the Lamido of Adamawa, Alhaji Muhammadu Mustapha.

Atiku Abubakar in his condolence message said “We received the news of the death of our pioneer Board of Trustees Chairman of the American University of Nigeria AUN, with deep shock and sadness.

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” According to him, Alhaji Ahmed Joda, CFR, was an accomplished elder statesman, journalist of repute and a seasoned administrator par excellence.

“His track record in public service remains unparalleled. His patriotic posture in the service of his father land is not only legendary but a virtue all public service holders should emulate.

“As our foundational Board of Trustees Chairman, he set the stage for the transformations and successes recorded at the American University of Nigeria.

“We have lost one of the finest statesmen of our time, a complete administrator and a role model to those of us who admire decency and decorum in public service.

“May God almighty grant his soul eternal rest, and give his immediate family the needed fortitude to bear his regrettable demise.

“We also extend our deepest sympathy to the government of Adamawa State, his friends and well wishes, may God grant them the required grace to bear such a huge loss.