President Muhammadu Buhari has appreciated one of his closest allies and in-law, Ismaila Isa Funtua, for helping him through his political career.
It was widely reported that Funtua died on Monday from an undisclosed ailment after being sick for less than two hours.
But in a statement on Tuesday by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, President Buhari said the death of Funtua has created a big gap in his life and career.
The statement reads, “President Muhammadu Buhari received with deep sadness on Monday evening information on passing of his longtime friend and associate, Malam Isma’ila Isa Funtua, who was Life Patron of International Press Institute and Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria.
“The President condoles with family members, government and people of Katsina State, and all associates of the former President of NPAN, especially the media industry, on the loss, describing him as greatly admired and respected.
“President Buhari believes the demise of the publisher and businessman has created a huge gap as Funtua consistently stood by him in his political journey.”
Funtua is said to be a member of the ‘Cabal’, a group of influential persons allegedly helping the President take key government decisions.
