A former aide on Human Rights to Atiku Abubakar, the Presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections, Hon. Shima Ayati, has passed away.
According to a family source, Mr. Ahangba Ayati, the deceased died on Saturday after a brief illness in Makurdi, Benue State.
Hon. Shima Ayati was a grassroots politician and author who played a significant role in Nigeria’s political landscape. He worked closely with former Vice President Atiku for four years, but their working relationship was cut short due to the fallout between President Olusegun Obasanjo and his vice, Atiku.
In 2003, Ayati became the Chairman of the Zaki-Biam relief committee under the then Governor George Akume of Benue State. In this capacity, he facilitated the distribution of food and relief materials to thousands of displaced Tiv people during the Zaki-Biam military invasion.
After retiring from active politics, Late Ayati focused on his businesses and lived a quiet life in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
The deceased family said his burial arrangements will be announced in due course.
