To my friend, Mallam Abba Kyari – [LEADERSHIP]
Mallam Abba Kyari, who died on 17th April 2020, at the age of 67 from complications caused by the Coronavirus, was a true Nigerian patriot. My loyal friend and compatriot for the last 42 years – and latterly my Chief-of-Staff – he never wavered in his commitment to the betterment of every one of us.
He was only in his twenties when we first met. A diligent student, soon after he was blessed with the opportunity to study abroad – first at Warwick and then law at the University of Cambridge. But there was never any question Abba would bring his first-rate skills and newly acquired world-class knowledge back to Nigeria – which he did – immediately upon graduation.
Whilst possessing the sharpest legal and organisational mind, Abba’s true focus was always the development of infrastructure and the assurance of security for the people of this nation he served so faithfully. For he knew that without both in tandem there can never be the development of the respectful society and vibrant economy that all Nigerian citizens deserve.
In political life, Abba never sought elective office for himself. Rather, he set himself against the view and conduct of two generations of Nigeria’s political establishment – who saw corruption as an entitlement and its practice a byproduct of possessing political office.
Becoming my Chief of Staff in 2015, he strove quietly and without any interest in publicity or personal gain to implement my agenda.
There are those who said of him that he must be secretive – because he did not have a high public profile. But Abba was the opposite: he simply had no need, nor did he seek, the cheap gratification of the crowd; for him, there was nothing to be found in popular adulation. He secured instead satisfaction and his reward solely and only from the improvement of the governance of this great country.
Working, without fail, seven days each and every week, he acted forcefully as a crucial gatekeeper to the presidency, ensuring no one – whether minister or governor had access beyond another – and that all those representing and serving our country were treated equally.
He made clear in his person and his practice, always, that every Nigerian – regardless of faith, family, fortune or frailty – was heard and treated respectfully and the same.
Mallam Abba Kyari was the very best of us. He was made of the stuff that makes Nigeria great. Rest In Peace, my dearest friend.
To his loving wife and doting family who survive him, I extend my heartfelt sorrow at your loss.
– Buhari is President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
EU, African leaders mourn as Abba Kyari is laid to rest [LEADERSHIP]
Foreign bodies, including the European Union (EU), as well as African and national leaders called and sent several messages of condolences to President Muhammadu Buhari as the remains of his late chief of staff, Mallam Abba Kyari, was yesterday laid to rest.
He was put in the ground at about 11:22am at the military cemetery, Gudu, Abuja, after funeral prayers at the deceased residence.
The officials who interred the late Kyari’s were in full personal protective kits and equipment as mandated by the Federal Ministry of Health to bury coronavirus victims.
As advised by the protocols put in place by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the ministry on social distancing, the burial, according to the presidency, marked the end of all ceremonies for the late Kyari.
Presidential spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu, noted in a statement that there will be no more condolence visits to the Kyari family and the presidency after yesterday’s burial rite.
“Well-wishers and all other Nigerians are instead advised to pray for the repose of the soul of the late Chief of Staff. A condolence register will be opened at the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) from Sunday for those who are able to use the window permitted for movement by the FCT administration”, Shehu stated.
Kyari Died On Friday Of Complications From Coronavirus At A Hospital In Lagos
Confirming his death, a statement issued by the special adviser to the president on media and publicity, Femi Adesina, in the early hours of yesterday noted that Kyari had tested positive to coronavirus and died on Friday while receiving treatment in a private hospital in Lagos.
Following enquiries on his death, the Lagos State government yesterday disclosed that he died in First Cardiology Consultants Hospital in Lagos.
The state government in a statement issued by its commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, revealed that the Kyari died from complications of Coronavirus infection at First Cardiology Consultants in Lagos.
The statement noted: “This hospital is a Lagos State designated high care, biosecurity-compliant, COVID-19 facility, accredited by the Health Facility Management and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) of the Lagos State Ministry of Health.
“As a basis for accreditation, First Cardiology Consultants established a separate specialist wing with staff dedicated to the treatment of complicated cases of COVID-19, under the supervision of the Lagos State COVID-19 emergency response team.”
Since his appointment as the chief of staff to the president in August 2015, the late Kyari was a major player in the Buhari administrationt till he died on Friday, April 17.
He was among the first key officers to be reappointed for a second when Buhari was re-elected as President in 2019.
The European Union delegation to Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) mourned the passing of late chief of staff to President Buhari, saying he was an inspiration to many.
In a condolence message by Amb Ketil Karlsen, Head of the EU delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, the EU expressed sadness at the demise of Kyari who they described as a statesman.
Karlsen described Kyari as an inspiration to many, adding that he was very passionate about the development of Nigeria.
“I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Abba Kyari. My thoughts are with his family. He became a friend and was an inspiration with his passionate approach to development of Nigeria in general and the North in particular, may his soul rest in eternal peace”, he stated.
President Muhammadu Buhari also received several messages of condolences from foreign and national leaders over the death of Kyari.
The president received telephone calls from President Nana Akuffo-Ado of Ghana and President Muhammadou Youssoufou of Niger Republic.
According to a statement by presidential spokesman, Shehu, the president also received calls of condolences from former President Yayi Boni of Benin Republic and two former Nigerian Heads of State, Generals Yakubu Gowon and Abdulsalami Abubakar.
Shehu further noted that President Buhari also received similar messages of condolence from the embassies of friendly countries, including Egypt, Chad and Liberia.
He said messages “were also received from Governors Nasir El-Rufa’i of Kaduna State, Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, Professor Babagana Zulum of Borno State, Abubakar Bagudu, Kebbi, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje of Kano State; former Governors of Katsina, Sa’idu Barda, Zamfara Abdulaziz Yari and Abdulfatah Ahmed of Kwara as well as the former Senate President, Ken Nnamanni, the Sultan of Sokoto Dr. Sa’ad Abubakar 111 and the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev. Samson Ayokunle.
“The Emirs of Kazaure, Najib Hussaini Adamu; Kebbi, General Muhammadu Ilyasu Bashar (rtd), and that of Machina, Alhaji Bashir Al-Bashir Bukar; APC National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chairman of Zenith Bank, Jim Ovia, President, Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote and the Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission, Ambassador Mamman Nuhu were among the early callers.
“Calls to the President were also received from Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, former Ministers, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma and Gen. Ike Umaru Sanda Nwachukwu; Senators Monsurat Sunmonu and Kabiru Marafa as well as Pastor Tunde Bakare”, Shehu stated.
State governors collectively and individually issued statements to express condolence over the death of the late chief of the staff to the president.
The Nigeria Governors Forum under the leadership of Ekiti State governor, Kayode Fayemi, in a letter offered their condolences to the president.
Fayemi said, “Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) received with shock the news of the death of your Chief of Staff, Mallam Abba Kyari. On behalf of all the 36 State Governors under the platform of the NGF, write to offer our deepest condolences.
“The late Abba Kyari steered the activities of your office with the passion and integrity of a patriot who wished nothing but progress for his country and demanded nothing but decorum, care and respect for those who sought your attention as the President.
“With wisdom and foresight, he forged strong ties between the President and the Ministers, and strengthened the bond between our Forum and your administration.
“He did not allow public perception to affect his loyalty to you and remained a pillar of your administration to his last breadth. May Allah (SW’I‘) grant you and our country the fortitude to hear this great loss.
“As we condole with our President and country in this trying moment, the NGF avails this opportunity to renew to you the assurance of our highest consideration”.
Osinbajo, Aisha Buhari Mourn
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, yesterday expressed sadness over the passing away of the chief of staff to the president.
He said, “Dolapo and I express our sympathies to the President, Mrs Kulu Kyari, the children, and members of the family on the passing of Mallam Abba Kyari, Chief of Staff to the President. May the Lord comfort and be with you all in Jesus name, amen”.
Similarly, First Lady, Aisha Buhari also condoled with Mrs Kulu Abba Kyari and the entire Kyari family over the death of their husband and father.
In a tweet in her twitter handle, she said, “From God Almighty we came and to him we shall return). I condole with Mrs. Kulu Abba Kyari and the entire family of Late Malam Abba Kyari over the death of their husband and father.
“I pray that Allah (SWT) will forgive his shortcomings, grant him Al-Jannatul Firdausi and give the family the fortitude and patience to bear the loss, Ameen. While wishing all those infected a speedy recovery and I pray for an end to Covid-19 Pandemic”.
Kyari’s Death Shocking, Sad – Lawan
President of the Senate, Ahmed Lawan, said yesterday that he it was with shock and sadness that he received the news of the passing on of the chief of staff to the president, Mallam Abba Kyari.
Lawan expressed his heartfelt condolence to the Kyari family over what he described as a great loss.
The Senate president also condoled with President Buhari over the loss of the late Kyari he further described as a very competent, dedicated and loyal aide, who was a pillar in his administration.
Lawan also extended his heartfelt sympathy to the government and people of Borno State over the passage of a great son of the state.
In a statement signed by his media aide, Ola Awoniyi, the Senate president said Mallam Kyari drew from his experiences as a lawyer who was called to the Bar in 1983, a banker and a journalist to become an administrator par excellence who did his best as the topmost aide of the President.
Kyari’s Demise A Monumental Loss – Lalong
The chairman Northern Governors Forum and Plateau State governor Simon Lalong, has expressed deep shock over the death of Kyari.
Governor Lalong, in a condolence message, issued in Jos by the director of press, Simon Makut Macham, sympathised with the immediate family of the deceased, President Muhammadu Buhari and the entire nation for what he described as a monumental loss.
Lalong said, “Mallam Abba Kyari was a deeply resourceful person who provided tremendous support to President Buhari and his Administration, and served Nigeria with patriotism, dignity, honesty and passion”.
Governor Lalong recalled the friendship and support which the late chief of staff had always extended to members of the Forum and Plateau State, describing him as a man who had zeal for peace and progress of Nigeria.
He also prayed God to grant the soul of the deceased eternal rest and give the family the fortitude to bear the loss.
Nigeria Has Lost A Worthy Son – Kogi Gov
Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello commiserated with President Buhari, saying his chief of staff, Mallam Abba Kyari, was a worthy son of Nigeria.
Bello in his condolence letter to the president also sympathised with the presidency and the people of Borno State over the sad loss.
He said, “On behalf of my family, the Government and the good people of Kogi State, I commiserate with Your Excellency, the entire presidency and the people of Borno State over the loss. Please, accept my deepest condolences on your bereavement.
“Mallam Kyari lived a good life of honesty, commitment to nation building and service to God and humanity.
“He undoubtedly had been a pillar of support to you in your enviable and exemplary journey since your assumption of office in 2015 as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“His wise counsel to you in the course of your selfless service to the people of Nigeria will not be forgotten easily.
“While I pray the Almighty Allah to give you the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss and grant late Kyari eternal rest, please accept once again my heartfelt condolences”.
It’s A Painful Loss – Sanwo-Olu
On his part, Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, condoled with President Muhammadu Buhari on the death the late Kyari, saying it was shocking, painful and a monumental loss to the nation
Sanwo-Olu, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Gboyega Akosile described the death of Mallam Abba Kyari as shocking, painful and a monumental loss to the nation, the people and government of Maiduguri and the Kyari family.
The governor said, ‘‘I received the sad news of the death of Mallam Abba Kyari, an astute public servant with a heavy heart. Mallam Kyari was a dedicated Nigerian, a deeply committed and patriotic citizen, who contributed remarkably to the smooth and successful running of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.’’
Bauchi Gov Describes Kyari’s Death As Shocking
Bauchi State governor, Bala Mohammed, expressed sadness over the demise of the late Abba Kyari, describing as “shocking” the death of the late chief of staff
A statement by his special assistant on new media, Lawal Mua’zu Bauchi, noted: “The Executive Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed has received with shock the death of Malam Abba Kyari, the Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari.
Ganduje Condoles Buhari, Family, FG
Kano state governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, condoled with President Buhari, federal government, Nigerians and the family of the late Kyari.
He prayed for Allah’s Forgiveness and blessing for the departed soul of Kyari, describing him as highly reserved and loyal Chief of Staff to the President.
“On behalf of the government and good people of Kano state, I am commiserating with the President and Commander-In-Chier of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, the federal government, his families and the entire Nigerians over the death of Malam Abba Kyari,” he said.
Borno Gov Mobilizes Imams, Ngala IDPs For Prayers
Governor of Borno, the late Kyari’s home state, Babagana Umara Zulum, yesterday mobilized internally displaced persons at different camps in Ngala local government to offer prayers to God for the repose of the late Abba Kyari.
Zulum said he received the sad news at Gamboru, a border town in Ngala, where he passed the night, while on humanitarian visit to supervise distribution of food, cash and textiles to about 50 thousand internally displaced persons in different camps.
On Zulum’s request, chief Imam of Ngala town, Goni Awari Goni Kadiri led a gathering of other imams and displaced persons to offer prayers of forgiveness and eternal peace in favour of the deceased, malam Isa Gusau, spokesman to the Governor, said in a statement.
Ngala town is headquarters of Ngala local government area.
Nigeria Has Lost A Fine Gentleman – Gov Yahaya
The governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, expressed grief over the demise of the chief of staff to the president.
Reacting to the news of Kyari’s death, Yahaya lamented that Nigeria has indeed lost a fine and dedicated gentleman, a patriot and a reliable administrator who was always mindful of his duties and responsibilities.
In a statement by his senior special assistant on media and publicity, Ismaila Uba Misili, the governor said the president’s late chief of staff would be remembered for his exemplary leadership, effectiveness in service, dedication and loyalty while carrying out the duties and responsibilities of his office.
Kyari Was An Astute Administrator- Gov Buni
Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State described the late chief of staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, Mallam Abba Kyari, as an astute administrator and a great patriot who dedicated his life to the service of the nation.
The governor on behalf of the government and people of the state, commiserated with President Muhammadu Buhari over the loss.
Kyari’s Death A National Tragedy- Gov Abiodun
Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, as well as the state chapter of All Progressives Congress (APC), described the demise of the late chief of staff to the president as a national tragedy.
The governor said this while commiserating with President Muhammadu Buhari, over the death of his former chief of staff.
Also, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, said that it was sad that the former chief of staff still lost the battle against COVID-19, adding that he was a man who was committed to the service of his fatherland.
In a letter of condolence addressed to President Buhari, and personally signed by him, the former president noted that Kyari’s death would no doubt, be painful to him, family and other friends, but urged the president to take solace in the fact that his former chief of staff died in service to Nigeria.
Kyari Was A Seasoned Administrator, Legal Icon – Bello
The chairman, North-Central Governor’s Forum and governor of Niger State, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, eulogised the late chief of staff to President Buhari, saying he was a seasoned administrator and legal icon.
In a statement issued by his chief press secretary, Mrs Mary Noel Berje, the governor said he received with shock, the death of the former chief of staff and commiserates with the presidency, family, friends and the people of Nigeria over the great loss.
Kyari Was A Strong Pillar- Farouq
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, described the late chief of staff to President Buhari as a strong pillar leading the staff who work closely with the president.
The minister said Kyari contributed in coordinating the activities of the various ministries and agencies for the efficient administration of the country.
Expressing her condolences to President Buhari and the family of the late Abba Kyari, the minister said she was shocked and saddened by the death of the chief with whom she worked closely even prior to her appointment as minister.
Kyari Was Experienced Administrator – Tambuwal
Sokoto State governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has described Abbah Kyari, the late chief of staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, as an accomplished administrator that would be missed greatly.
Tambuwal in a condolence message he personally signed and sent to Leadership Sunday, urged the immediate family and his boss, President Muhammadu Buhari, to take solace in the fact that from Allah “do we all come and to Him is our return.”
Kyari’s Demise, A Great Loss To Nigeria -Masari
Governor Aminu Bello Masari of Katsina State condoled with President Muhammadu Buhari over the demise of his chief of staff, the late Abba Kyari.
The governor said Kyari’s demise was a great loss to the nation.
A press statement signed by the director-general on media to the governor, Abdu Labaran Malumfashi, and made available to Leadership Sunday yesterday, described Kyari as a man whose lifetime was devoted to service to the fatherland.
Gov Sule Condoles With PMB
Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, yesterday condoled with President Buhari and the family of the late chief of staff to the president, Malam Abba Kyari, who passed away on Friday.
A statement signed by the director-general, Strategic Communication and Press Affairs to the governor, Yakubu Lamai, prayed for the departed soul of Kyari.
Gov Ayade Mourns Abba Kyari
Cross River State governor, Sir Ben Ayade, yesterday expressed profound shock and sadness over the death of President Muhammadu Buhari’s chief of staff, Mallam Abba Kyari.
The governor said he was utterly depressed by the sad news.
In a statement by his special adviser on media and publicity, Mr. Christian Ita, Governor Ayade described Kyari’s departure as a great loss to the nation.
Gov Fintiri Commiserates With PMB
Adamawa State governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, commiserated with President Muhammadu Buhari, and the family of late the chief of staff to the president.
Fintiri in a statement by his press secretary, Mr Humwashi Wonosikou, said it was with great sadness he received the shocking news.
Jonathan Mourns Abba Kyari
Former President Goodluck Jonathan also consoled President Muhammadu Buhari, the Kyari family, and the government and people of Borno State on the demise of the lateAbba Kyari.
Jonathan who posted on his verified Facebook page, said Kyari served his country to the best of his abilities as a lawyer, journalist and an astute administrator.
“May Allah grant him Al Jannah Firdaus and strengthen his family and friends during this period of grief,” the former president said.
Atiku Consoles Buhari
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar consoled President Buhari over the death of his chief of staff, describing the deceased as a loyal aide.
Reacting to the death in a statement in Abuja on Saturday, the former Vice President said, “I have received the death of your Chief of Staff with profound grief and sorrow, and I convey to you my deepest and heartfelt sympathies at this sombre moment.”
According to Atiku, death is inevitable and every living being will ultimately experience this terminal stage of life.
Kwara Gov mourns Abba Kyari, condoles with President, family
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Saturday described the death of the Chief of Staff to the President Abba Kyari as a huge loss to the country.
“The death of the Chief of Staff is a huge loss. We mourn Mallam Abba. He will be sorely missed. On behalf of the government and people of Kwara State, we commiserate with Mr President, the Federal Executive Council, and the immediate and extended family of Mallam Abba. We pray Almighty Allah to grant him Al-jannah firdaus,” AbdulRazaq said in a statement by his media spokesman Rafiu Ajakaye.
“We salute his contributions to the country, his avowed loyalty to the nation and the President, as well as his commitment to duty as a prominent member of Mr President’s administration. This development reminds us once again to unite at this trying time to collectively work towards containing the rampaging threat to all of humanity by adhering to all safety measures.”
Kyari Was Paragon Of Virtue – Malami
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister for Justice, Abubakar Malami has described the late chief of staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, Mallam Abba Kyari, as a paragon of virtue.
In a statement he personally signed, the attorney general said Kyari was also a patriotic citizen who rendered selfless service to Nigeria.
Kyari Served Meritoriously- Tukur
The former national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Dr Bamanga Tukur, yesterday mourned the death of the chief of staff to the President Buhari, saying he was a fine gentleman who served the country meritoriously.
Tukur in a statement he personally signed, said Kyari ensured the smooth running of President Muhammadu Buhari’s government.
Kyari Sacrificed Life In Service To Motherland- CAN
The leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) said that the late chief of staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, Mallam Abba Kyari, sacrificed his life in the course of service to the country.
A letter of condolence to the President Muhammadu Buhari, dated April,18 2020, and personally signed by the president of the association, Rev Samson Ayokunle, and made available to LEADERSHIP Sunday in Abuja, noted with sadness that the late Kyari contracted the pandemic abroad while on official duty.
Kyari Was Unshakeable, Formidable Force Behind Buhari- ACF
The apex northern socio-cultural group, Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), described the late chief of staff Abba Kyari, as a formidable and unshakeable force behind the Buhari presidency.
The forum in a condolence statement issued by the national publicity secretary, Emmanuel Yawe, said the forum received the news of the death of Kyari with shock and disbelief.
He said the forum had all along since he took ill hoped and prayed that he would survive the coronavirus which he contracted some weeks ago while on an official trip abroad.
APC Govs Mourn Kyari, Call For Concerted Efforts Against COVID-19 –
The Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) expressed shock over the death of the chief of staff to President Buhari.
The governors also called on all Nigerians to observe all the social distancing measures and stay safe, while also commending all the frontline medical personnel under the leadership of the Federal Ministry of Health and National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).
Former Minister Of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode Mourns Abba Kyari
The former minister of Aviation said regarding the late Chief of staff, “I have lost a friend of 40 years. We were at Cambridge together. We worked in my fathers law firm together.
“We remained close throughout right up until the end even though we disagreed politically. Abba was a good man: a man of honor and a loyal friend. May his soul Rest In Peace,” he said.
Abba Kyari’s death should not be in vain – Tinubu [LEADERSHIP]
All Progressives Congress (APC) National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, has described the late Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, Mallam Abba Kyari, as a man of accomplishment whose death due to the raging coronavirus pandemic should not be in vain.
He said although the nation is made sad and mourning, the people must also use his demise and those of others fallen by the virus to strengthen our resolve in fighting the pandemic.
His condolence message is contained in a statement signed by him and released by his Media Office on Saturday in Lagos.
Tinubu said: “I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Malam Abba Kyari, Chief of Staff to the President. He was an extremely able, loyal and talented man who dedicated his considerable skills to the success of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.
“Whatever someone will try to say about Mallam Kyari, the words will prove insufficient. His influence in government and throughout the land was substantial and profound. He will surely be missed. My deepest condolences go to President Buhari, the people of Nigeria and especially the family of Mallam kyari over this tragic loss. May Almighty Allah comfort the president and the Kyari family at this difficult moment.
“This death came at a time the government is working assiduously to prevent the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. We must not allow the passing away of Mallam Kyari and the other Nigerians who have lost their lives to this terrible disease to be in vain. Although we are today made sad, we must also use this moment to strengthen our resolve in fighting the pandemic.
“Let us rededicate ourselves to obeying the public health measures such as physical distancing so that we may defeat the contagion and not fall to it. While we must maintain spatial distance from one another we must yet come closer in the spirit of brotherly compassion and national purpose in order to defeat the threat we now face.
“Mallam Kyari was a man of accomplishment. We know not why Almighty Allah has taken him at this time. Allah’s will is supreme and there is no questioning it. Yet we must learn from Mallam Kyari’s passing. We must honour the departed by doing all we can to defeat the virus so that we safeguard the health of the nation that Mallam Kyari loved so deeply.
“To the family of Mallam Kyari, may Almighty Allah support and comfort them during this painful moment. My condolences are also with Governor Babagana Zulum, the government and people of Borno State over the loss of their extraordinary son.
“I pray that Allah Subuhana Watahalah grant the soul of our beloved Mallam Kyari eternal rest and admit him to Aljana Firdaus.”
Coronavirus: Quarantine attendees of Kyari’s burial, experts tell FG [PUNCH]
- NMA, NARD, ex-health minister, others condemn social distancing violation
- Group threatens to sue FG, family over burial gathering, cases hit 542
- FCTA isolates pallbearers, says future interments must follow NCDC protocols
Our Reporters
Medical experts in the country have asked the Federal Government to quarantine all persons who attended the burial of Mr Abba Kyari, the former Chief of Staff to the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), for public safety.
The experts pointed out that the gathering violated the ban on all forms of gathering in the Federal Capital Territory and government’s directive on social distancing, which were part of measures put in place by the government to contain the spread of the coronavirus.
Kyari, who was the topmost public figure to have died of the coronavirus in Nigeria, tested positive for the disease about three weeks ago, after he had visited Germany, a high-risk country. The former Chief of Staff passed on at a private hospital in Lagos on Friday.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof Akin Abayomi, in a thread of tweets on Saturday, said Kyari died of complications of the COVID-19 at the First Cardiologist Consultants hospital, a hospital he described as a Lagos State designated high care, biosecurity-compliant COVID-19 facility.
On Saturday, there were 49 new cases, pushing the total cases to 542, out of which 19 had died and 166 had been discharged.
But, at the Defence Guest House in Abuja where Kyari’s body was first received and the Gudu Cemetery, also in the FCT, where his remains were interred, there were scores of attendees, including top government functionaries, in violation of the ban on large gatherings and physical contacts imposed by the Federal Government.
But, speaking on the impact of the mass gathering at the burial in the midst of the rising spread of the COVID-19, medical experts said it would be in public interest for those at the funeral to be quarantined.
A renowned virologist, Prof Oyewale Tomori, who faulted the gathering of sympathisers at the burial, said even though there was no evidence that any of them had the virus, it would be better to place the attendees in isolation to be on the side of caution.
Tomori, a former President of the Nigerian Academy of Science, said, “I watched the burial and thought ‘this is wrong’. My focus would not be on the dead body but on the rules that we should maintain social distancing and not gather. So what did they take Funke Akindele (celebrity actress) to court for? And look at the number of people who were also in court with Akindele, they should have been taken to court.
“We don’t have any evidence that any of them at the burial has the virus but if they decide for safety sake to keep them in isolation, I think it is a right decision. It is better to err on the side of caution.
“Any of them could have the virus and with the gathering, there was the possibility of spreading it among them. So to be on the side of caution, I would put all of them in isolation and then test them. It is not just isolating them; I would test them in addition to isolating them.”
He, however, noted that even though he didn’t know how the body of the deceased was treated, with the way it was wrapped up in the video, the chances of anybody getting COVID-19 from there were very slim. “It is not impossible but it is very slim,” he said.
“However, this is the same government that said no mass gathering and that people should maintain a distance of six feet from others. There was definitely mass gathering at the burial and they violated both.”
Also, the President, National Association of Resident Doctors, Dr Aliyu Sokomba, said it would be appropriate to quarantine those who attended the burial for the safety of all.
He said, “What is appropriate at this point is for all those who attended that gathering to be traced and isolated to prevent further spread of the disease. And that is very important. Part of the precautionary measures that should have been taken while the burial rite was going on was social distancing, which was not observed.
“The gathering itself was a hazard for those who attended the burial. What is important is that those people who attended the burial should, if possible, be identified and quarantined to prevent any chance of them transmitting the disease to other people like their loved ones and other Nigerians that would come in contact with them.”
The President of the Nigerian Medical Association, Dr Francis Faduyile, said it was unfortunate that such happened, especially when all gatherings had been banned at the Federal Capital Territory. The FCT Minister, Mohammed Bello, on March 21 banned all public gatherings of over 50 persons.
Faduyile, however, said environmental health officials should have decontaminated everyone at the burial to limit the chances of spreading the disease.
He added, “From what we saw, we observed that those people at the burial did not show the required physical distancing. What we saw was not good enough. Again, for those who put on the PPE, although I did not see how they donned it, we saw one viral video in which one person was doffing it and it was really unfortunate.
“These were the minimum that we expected, that anybody leading such should ensure that the donning and the doffing were well supervised. And what made things worse was the disposal. The way it was left outside left us with so much to worry about.”
When asked if there was a need to quarantine all the attendees to limit the spread, the NMA President said, “We have different levels of contact and it depends on the categorisation of the contact; we have some people that were close to the body and those were the people who wore the PPE and carried the body. Then, we had people who stood by watching and didn’t have any contact. So, it’s different categorisation.
“Naturally, we should have the environmental health officials around so they could ensure they decontaminate everybody that was there.”
Also, a former Minister of Health, Prof Onyebuchi Chukwu, said it was a big error to have more than 50 people during the burial, while expressing concern that social distancing rule was not observed.
He added, “I do not think those that attended the burial should be isolated now. The only time you will isolate them is if there are one or two people who are confirmed to have the symptom or are confirmed positive. However, if you find anyone maybe tomorrow or on Monday positive, I will advise that all the people that attended should be quarantined.”
Meanwhile, the immediate past president of NARD, Dr Olusegun Olaopa, also warned of a major consequence from the huge gathering that witnessed the burial while describing the gathering as disappointing.
Olaopa said, “It will be a big disappointment if that burial was coordinated by the NCDC. I want to believe people just took the law into their own hands. So, let us give NCDC the benefit of the doubt.
“Funke Akindele hosted an event in her house in Lagos and the number of people there was not up to 30. She was arrested and prosecuted. The gathering at Kyari burial showed that some people think they are above the law.
“The danger there is that Abuja may just be waiting for another pool of new cases of people with coronavirus.”
He said with the way law was broken at the gathering, government should sanction its officials at the event.
Group threatens to sue FG, family over gathering
A civil society organisation, Kingdom Human Rights Foundation International, has threatened to sue the Federal Government and the Kyari family should they fail to produce all those who attended the burial for isolation or quarantine.
The group’s Executive Director, Okere Nnamdi, in a statement, said, “Kingdom Human Rights Foundation International will file a public interest action against the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Kyari family if they fail to make all those who attended the burial available for 14-day isolation and NCDC to quarantine them within 24 hours.”
Also, a civil rights movement, Human Rights Writers Association, has demanded that the NCDC should trace and quarantine for 14 days everyone that witnessed the burial.
HURIWA, in a statement on Saturday by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko and Media Affairs Director, Zainab Yusuf, said, “For the sake of public safety and public good, we urge the Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, to self isolate for 14 days and for the NCDC to trace and send to the isolation centre the hundreds of the persons who attended the burial of the Chief of Staff in clear violation of the extant laws regulating the conduct of funerals during the health emergency brought upon us by the rampaging coronavirus disease.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: OAU researching into natural products that could cure COVID-19 — Prof Ogunbodede, VC
“This public show of total disregard for the laws that were rolled out and signed publicly by the President as manifested by the rich and powerful who turned up for the burial ceremony must never be allowed to go the way of other illegalities in our clime.”
Also, the Coalition of United Political Parties also expressed disappointment with the manner of handling the burial.
In a statement by its spokesperson, Ikenga Ugochinyere, it said, “The Presidential Task Force led by the SGF should be disbanded for authorising the violation of all measures put in place to curtail the spread of the virus, hosting an infected body in government presidential building; the Defence House in Maitama, and an effective and responsive team to be headed by the Vice-President be set up immediately to lead us through this battle against coronavirus.”
VIPs shun social distancing at Kyari’s funeral
Meanwhile, despite the tweet by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr Garba Shehu, that the funeral prayer and burial would be “private”, scores of Nigerians, including top government officials, attended the burial.
Most attendees at the burial, though wearing face masks, stood less than two metres apart as prescribed by the NCDC protocol and the guideline issued by the Federal Ministry of Health.
Prominent persons in attendance included the National Coordinator of the PTF on COVID-19, Dr Sani Aliyu; former Governor of Borno State, Senator Kashim Shettima; and Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika.
Others were the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Mele Kyari; Minister of Communications, Isa Pantami; and the Permanent Secretary of the State House, Tijjani ldris Umar, among others.
However, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control Interim Guidelines for the Safe Management of a Dead Body reads, “In the event a ceremony is held, the number of attendees should be limited. The ceremony should be held in a well-ventilated structure, attendees should be advised on social distancing throughout the event, ensuring practice of hand and respiratory hygiene.”
Pallbearer who buried Kyari dumps used protective suit at cemetery
Meanwhile, one of the pallbearers at the burial was seen in a viral video dumping his used Hazmat suit, apparently to prevent coronavirus infection.
The nearly two-minute long video, which was uploaded on YouTube on Saturday, did not show the unidentified man being disinfected before disrobing outside the Gudu cemetery.
After disrobing, the man, who moments earlier had handled Kyari’s remains, walked away, leaving the protective suit on the floor.
FCTA isolates pallbearers, says future interments must follow NCDC protocols
However, the Health and Human Services Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration on Saturday said the pallbearers at the burial had been put in isolation.
It also said that its officials had evacuated the personal protection equipment discarded by one of the men who participated in the burial.
This had generated concern among Nigerians who expressed fears over the implication of the culprit’s action.
But the Public Health Department said it removed the PPE and also decontaminated the area.
The acting Secretary, Health and Human Services Secretariat, FCTA, Dr Mohammed Kawu, in a statement said, “The said PPE left by the individual has been professionally evacuated and the entire cemetery decontaminated. In addition, all the individuals including the man in question that participated in the burial and were not properly kitted have been identified and are being isolated.”
READ ALSO: Dump refuse here and die! Lagosians tackle infection risks with psychological warfare
Kawu explained that necessary tests would be conducted on all of them to determine their level of exposure and ensure that they do not infect other people.
He said the administration had also taken steps to ensure that all future burials of victims of COVID-19 were conducted in line with NCDC protocols.
“Residents are therefore urged to remain calm and rest assured that the FCT Administration will continue to do all that is necessary to curtail and eventually end the spread of the coronavirus in the FCT,” the statement noted.
Also, several Nigerians on Twitter expressed outrage over the violation of social distancing. The burial was one of the topmost trends throughout Saturday.
Presidency rules out condolence visit
Meanwhile, presidential spokesperson, Garba Shehu, in a statement, said well-wishers at the burial could sign a condolence register at the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, adding that there would be no visit to the State House.
Shehu said, “As advised by the protocols put in place by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and the Federal Ministry of Health on social distancing, the burial marks the end of all ceremonies and there will be no condolence visits to family and the Presidency.”
FG, private hospitals disagree over COVID-19 treatment [PUNCH]
Private health care providers and the Guild of Medical Directors have expressed dissatisfaction with the decision of the Federal Government not to allow private hospitals without accreditation treat persons who test positive for the novel coronavirus disease.
The private health care providers, under the aegis of Association of General and Private Medical Practitioners of Nigeria, and the GMD said it was wrong for the government to sideline them in the treatment of the COVID-19 patients.
As of the time of filing this report, the number of cases in Nigeria had risen to 542, out of which 166 had been discharged while 19 persons, including the Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari, had died.
The Minister of State for Health, Olorunnimbe Mamora, announced recently that the ministry was working with relevant institutions to expedite the process of assessing and providing accreditation for private medical facilities with relevant capacity to manage COVID-19 cases. But the Minister of Health, Dr Ehanire Osagie, said on Friday at the task force briefing that none had been accredited so far.
Ehanire stated, “There is none (private hospital) that I know that has been accredited. If you as a private hospital want to run a treatment centre for coronavirus, you have to show first of all that you have the staff; a doctor who must be an infectious disease specialist and nurses and even cleaners who are trained in infection prevention protocol.
“The operations are different from what obtains in other hospitals. While this is not prohibited, there is no private hospital that has met those criteria at the moment.”
Also, at the PTF’s media briefing on Thursday, Ehanire threatened that government would shut down private hospitals secretly treating COVID-19 patients. The Kano State Government also said it would shut any private hospital treating COVID-19 patients.
Meanwhile, in their response to the government’s decision, the two associations said it was unfortunate that the Federal Government did not recognise the contribution of the private sector to health care delivery in the country.
The National President, AGPMPN, Dr Ugwu Odo, questioned why private hospitals needed to apply for accreditation before being allowed to treat COVID-19 patients.
He said, “Is that the way government collaborates with its people? Do we need to apply? Does every hospital apply anywhere in the world? Health care is predominantly a concern for public and private sectors and you cannot successfully separate them. That is why we now have the public-private partnership, knowing that no matter how wealthy or powerful a government is, it cannot do it alone.
“The Federal Government should not wait for us to apply, they should mobilise their human and material resources to support the public and private health care providers.”
“It bothers us that even up till Thursday, our own minister is still making the world feel that the private sector is not part of this scheme and the private sector is to just identity possible or probable COVID-19 patients and refer to the nearest centre. Is that what the doctor has become?
“It’s not done. The doctor has to be the doctor he’s trained to be. He has to show compassion; the National Health Act which they are part of in putting in place recognises that doctors have to care, provide that initial emergency care, stabilise their patients before they make referral.”
READ ALSO: Police fail to provide masks, sanitisers for officers enforcing lockdown
He said the association had tried to engage the Federal Government, the health minister and the directors in the ministry on the need to protect, empower, motivate, encourage and pacify everyone to combat the pandemic.
He explained that there is no private or public malaria and that no Nigerian who dies of COVID-19 would be said to have “died a private or public death”.
Odo said a sector that takes care of the health of the over 70 per cent of Nigerians could not be sidelined at a time of national emergency, adding that about six to seven COVID-19 patients out of eight to 10 are most likely to first visit a private hospital. “The point is that the private sector is still being sidelined; we are not getting the attention, we are not being encouraged and we are not even seen as stakeholders,” he added.
He said government should give the private sector the honour due to it.
He said, “We cannot be seen as a sacrificial lamb. When Ebola came a few years ago, it first landed in a private hospital. It took the courageous spirit of Dr Stella Adadevoh who obstructed that difficult case from leaving the hospital. She eventually paid with her life.
“As we speak, most of the Lassa fever cases that have been recorded in the country were reported in private hospitals. Our doctors and nurses are dying all over the places in private facilities. Our government should see the health sector as one, because indeed we are one.
“The data we raise speak for Nigeria as one, the success we record as a sector is seen as one anywhere in the world. This is not the time to divide the house, it’s a time to heal every wound and act in unity.”
Also, GMD’s National President, Prof Femi Dokun-Babalola, corroborated Odo’s position, saying many COVID-19 patients first visit private medical facilities before being referred to the accredited government hospitals.
He said it was therefore unfortunate that the Federal Government had not given the private hospitals the needed support in the management of COVID-19 patients.
He stated, “To the best of my knowledge, not much has been done to collaborate with us. We have had meeting with the Federal Government where we told the Minister of Health that we are not being carried along in management of COVID-19 in the country so far.
“One of the things we told the minister was that the private hospitals are always in the frontline of attack by these patients. They will come to the private hospitals without knowing they have COVID-19 before we start treating them.
“Even though we have warned our members to take precautions, you cannot really tell that a patient has COVID-19 until you have interacted with them during which period we may have been exposed to that patient.”
Doctors, nurses in isolation in Lagos, Ilorin, Edo now 155 – Health unions
No fewer than 155 doctors and nurses are in isolation in Lagos, Kwara and Edo states, findings by Sunday PUNCH have revealed.
In Edo State, about 25 doctors comprising house officers, resident doctors and a consultant had been in self-isolation after coming in contact with COVID-19 patients. A doctor had died as a result of the disease, while two doctors in the state had also tested positive for the virus.
In Kwara State, no fewer than 65 nurses and midwives are to remain in isolation, while 14 doctors at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital who have been in self-isolation may resume work next week after testing negative for the virus.
About 79 nurses and midwives were placed in self-isolation, out of which 14 had tested negative twice and are likely to resume next week, while the remaining 65 are still in self- isolation until the result of their second test is out. They had tested negative after the first test.
The health workers were made to self-isolate following the death of a suspected COVID-19 patient who allegedly was admitted at the Accident and Emergency ward of the hospital without disclosing that he was a suspected carrier of the virus.
The patient was admitted in the hospital for food poisoning on April 1 but died the following day and was buried in his home in Offa without his samples taken for COVID-19 test.
The Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association in the state, Dr Mohammed Solagberu, said, “14 medical doctors of UITH are in self-isolation. I think they have completed the two weeks isolation, they have tested negative and have not shown symptoms of COVID-19. They are likely to resume next Monday.”
Also, the state chairman, National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, Alhaji Shehu Aminu, said the 14 nurses and midwives who had tested negative twice would resume next week, adding that the remaining 65 were still in self- isolation.
He added, “They didn’t have contact with the suspected coronavirus victim but they were exposed to the deceased for one or two days. None of them has shown symptoms of COVID-19.”
The head of UITH branch of the Association of Resident Doctors, Dr Lanre Olosunde, also said, “The doctors as of now are in self-isolation and they are doing fine. I can’t tell you the number but they will resume (work) as soon as the NCDC clears them.”
Meanwhile, UITH Public Relations Officer, Mrs Elizabeth Ajiboye, declined responding to enquiries when contacted by one of our correspondents.
However, the NMA Chairman in Lagos State, Dr Saliu Oseni, told one of our correspondents that there were about 50 health workers in isolation in the state, noting that people should disclose their health status and travel history so as not to endanger health workers.
He said, “We have quite a number of doctors in Lagos now that are under self-isolation because patients present themselves in the hospital denying their status and they expose our colleagues.
“I don’t think we have less than 50 health workers in self- isolation currently, from different hospitals. That is why we have been pleading with the government that they should provide protective gears and that is why we are saying we don’t want private hospitals to treat COVID-19 patients. They should identify the patient, diagnose and refer to the isolation centre.”
Lagos nurses demand PPEs as three test positive, 25 in isolation
Also, the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives in Lagos State has expressed concern over the working environment in which nurses have found themselves, saying the shortage of personal protective equipment and welfare packages had become worrisome.
While commending the efforts of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in leading a fight against the disease, the association, in a statement by the state chairman, Mrs Israel Blessing, lamented that three of its members had tested positive for the virus, while 25 others are in isolation.
It added, “Most of the expected PPE are not available for use, hence nurses are being exposed to unnecessary risk. Presently, some of our nurses have tested positive for COVID-19 and have presented themselves at the isolation centre for management.
“These set of people will require immediate activation of their insurance policy. Also, about 25 nurses are on self-quarantine after being exposed to cases of COVID-19. This is telling on the already strained manpower at various health facilities, making the work overwhelming for nurses.
“There is need for improvement in provision and supply of personal protective equipment, which include surgical masks, N95 face masks, latex and elbow gloves, disposable gowns, etc. There is also need for concretised arrangements for insurance cover for nurses and upward review of the present ridiculous hazard allowance for all health care workers.”
Don’t treat COVID-19 patients without PPE, NMA tells doctors
As a way of protecting its members, the Nigerian Medical Association has advised doctors against treating COVID-19 patients without protective gear, saying the country could not afford to lose more doctors and other health professionals amid shortage of medical personnel.
The National Publicity Secretary of the NMA, Dr Obitade Obimakinde, in an interview with one of our correspondents on Friday, however explained that doctors should not reject accident victims and other patients who did not show symptoms of coronavirus but must take precautionary measures to protect themselves.
He said, “There are not enough PPE in our hospitals despite their importance especially in managing patients with infectious diseases. We don’t want to lose more doctors and that is why we are advising our members not to expose themselves to unnecessary risks by treating patients positive for COVID-19 or other infectious diseases without personal protective equipment.
“But we must clarify this so that doctors will not be rejecting all patients. We are here to save lives and that is our job and we must do our best to save lives. If accident victims are brought and they do not show any symptoms of COVID-19, we advise doctor to treat such patients. They should attend to any patient that does not show any symptoms of coronavirus but they still have to wear gloves, face masks and other protective equipment.
“If they have patients who show symptoms of coronavirus, they should make sure they are protected before attending to such patients.”
READ ALSO: Govt COVID-19 policy must consider challenge of hunger in Nigeria –Sowunmi
Obimakinde also said it was criminal to treat coronavirus patients at home or even in private hospitals because government had not given them approval to manage such cases.
Also, the Delta State chapter of the NMA has urged its members to steer clear of coronavirus patients if they do not have the proper personal protective equipment.
Briefing journalists on Friday in Asaba, the NMA Chairman, Dr Ekeneam Omo, said, “Doctors in the state have been mandated by the association not to go near any COVID-19 patient without the appropriate PPE. The state government should make available adequate PPE for all health workers in the state.
“We request full complement of PPE, including Hazmat Suit, a minimum of N95 face masks, gloves, face shield/goggle and aprons at all times. Health care workers who constitute the first contact are exposed to significant risk and deserve to be properly trained to handle such cases without exposing themselves to any risk.”
The association also demanded an upward review of the hazard allowance of all doctors and health care workers from N5,000 to a percentage of their consolidated basic salary.
They also demanded for compensation for all doctors and health care workers who died or suffered disability from attending to COVID-19 patients among others.
Kyari: Exit of strong man behind the throne [PUNCH]
OLALEKAN ADETAYO writes on the life and times of Abba Kyari, who until his death on Friday, was the chief of staff to the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.)
It was one of the rare moments he appeared in another outfit apart from his traditional white agbada and wine coloured Kanuri native cap. The Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari, was in suit! It will take a closer look for one to recognise him in the picture. That was the picture of his last official assignment abroad. He had visited Germany with the Minister of Power, Sale Mamman. Their mission, according to the government, was to attract investment in power sector to the country. Rather than accomplish that, Kyari unwittingly ended up contracting the dreaded coronavirus which eventually snuffed life out of the unobtrusive but powerful presidential aide on Friday.
Mamman had tweeted the pictures in question with the caption: “The Chief of Staff to the President, Mallam Abba Kyari, and I are in Munïch right now meeting with executive members of @Siemens to discuss issues relating to the Nigerian power sector. The Nigerian Ambassador to Germany H.E @YusufTuggar has joined us for this meeting.” Members of that delegation returned to the country in mid-March and shortly thereafter, Kyari was pronounced to have tested positive for the deadly virus.
Kyari, whose remains were interred at the Gudu Cemetery, Abuja on Saturday morning, was the rallying point of presidential aides and government officials at the Presidential Villa, Abuja during his lifetime. He can be appropriately described as the spine of the regime of the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.).
Buhari appointed Kyari as his Chief of Staff on August 27, 2015, barely three months after he was inaugurated as the President. Since then, the former banker and ex-journalist did not leave anyone in doubt about his huge influence on the President.
His role gave him the power, to a large extent, to decide who the President can see, where he can visit and other decisions he should take. The President himself pronounced that nothing comes to his table without passing through his chief of staff. He was the President’s alter ego. Expectedly, this role made many, including some of the President’s cabinet and family members, to see him as a stumbling block whenever they cannot have their ways.
Using the words of a former senator from Kaduna State, Shehu Sani, the late Chief of Staff took the bullets for his principal. Sani captured it pertinently when, in his tribute, he wrote: “Abba Kyari: The President has lost a trusted and loyal friend. A man who took the bullets of his master with smiles, calmness and silence. We knew his cap and his colours but never his mind or his own side of his story. He will be missed as a Punchman or a punch.”
For instance, not a few people hold the belief that Kyari was the brain behind Buhari’s refusal to grant the former Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue, Babatunde Fowler, a second term in office. Those who hold that belief will quickly point to the query he issued to the former tax man shortly before he was denied the opportunity for a second term.
Another incident that those who belong to this school of thought will quickly point to was the suspension and subsequent exit of Mrs Winifred Oyo-Ita as the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. Oyo-Ita had an open brush with Kyari after the controversial reinstatement and subsequent posting of a former Chairman of the Pension Reforms Commission, Abdulrasheed Maina, became public. The altercation which took place at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, Abuja was believed to be based on Oyo-Ita’s leaked memo to Kyari in which she claimed that Buhari was aware of Maina’s reinstatement and that she warned the President against it. Oyo-Ita had claimed that her warning was based on the implications such reinstatement would have on the anti-corruption war of the Federal Government. Kyari must have believed that Oyo-Ita leaked the memo to embarrass the government. A week after they made a public show of their disagreement at the Council Chambers, they also returned to the same venue to announce their reconciliation. That notwithstanding, many still attributed Oyo-Ita’s ordeal, which came months after the incident, to the President’s trusted aide.
The fact that some members of Buhari’s cabinet were not finding Kyari’s influence funny further emerged earlier in the year with the leaked memo of the National Security Adviser, Major Gen. Babagana Monguno (retd.), in which he accused Kyari of meddling in matters of national security and asking security chiefs to stop attending meetings called by the deceased.
One other person that will not be forgotten easily when talking about those who rose against Kyari’s perceived overbearing influence on the President is the President’s wife, Aisha. She has never hidden her disdain for those she said held her husband hostage despite not contributing to his electoral victory in 2015. Ahead of the 2019 general election, angry Mrs Buhari also in 2018 alleged publicly that two men in her husband’s government had hijacked the administration. Although she did not mention Kyari, many observers of event suspected that the President’s Chief of Staff must be one of the unamed two men.
Like the proverbial tortoise who is always the subject of almost all folktales, some also impugned on Kyari’s integrity at a time when it was alleged that he was behind the perceived poor handling of the fine imposed by the Nigerian Communication Commission on a telecommunication firm. When Kyari was sick in 2016 and he had to seek medical attention in the United Kingdom, it was also alleged that the Nigerian High Commission in the UK picked his medical bill from tax payers’ money. In his characteristic manner, Kyari remained silent on the matter, although the Ministry of Foreign Affairs later denied the allegation.
There was no way public commentators did not describe Kyari during his lifetime. Some called him the de facto vice president while some others even described him as the real President. To some, he was a prime minister, though not backed by the constitution. Amid the derogatory comments against him however, he remained unruffled. He was never moved to explain his side of any of the narratives. He was apparently comfortable with the fact that despite the outcry, he enjoyed absolute confidence of his principal.
Despite all the criticisms that his office attracted to him, however, nobody can say Kyari was not eminently qualified for the position he held till his death on Friday. According to Wikipedia, Kyari holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from the University of Warwick, England. He is also said to possess a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Law from the University of Cambridge, England and was called to the Nigerian Bar after attending the Nigerian Law School in 1983.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Kyari’s death calls for deep reflection –ADC, PDP, CUPP, others
In 1984, he obtained a master’s degree in law from the University of Cambridge. He later attended the International Institute for Management Development at Lausanne, Switzerland and participated in the Programme for Management Development at the Harvard Business School in 1992 and 1994.
Kyari worked for the law firm, Fani-Kayode and Sowemimo, for some time after his return to Nigeria. From 1988 to 1990, he was editor with the New Africa Holdings Limited Kaduna. In 1990, he served as Commissioner for Forestry and Animal Resources in his home state, Borno. From 1990 to 1995, Kyari was Secretary to the Board of African International Bank Limited. He was Executive Director, Management Services, United Bank for Africa Plc and later appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive of the bank.
No doubt, Kyari’s death will have a great impact on Buhari’s g regime but the President is said to have accepted the development as the will of God which no man can question.
It appears however that Nigerians have been united by Kyari’s death. Politicians across party lines have been taking turns to eulogise the late presidential aide and commiserate with the mourning President.
It has yet to be seen if the development will however lead to an end to unhealthy political rivalry in the Buhari’s presidency in particular or the country as whole.
Abba Kyari buried in Abuja, Buhari mourns [SUN]
The remains of Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, Abba Kyari, who lost his battle to Coronavirus disease was interred yesterday at exactly 11:30a.m at Gugu Cemetery, Abuja.
His remains were brought in an ambulance to the Defence House in Abuja, where family members, as well as his colleagues, gathered to pay their last respect.
Presidential media aide, Garba Shehu, had earlier announced the receipt of his body from Lagos, but added that there would be no condolence visits.
In a statement, he said: “We just received the body of Abba Kyari the deceased Chief of Staff the President in Abuja. In strict observation of the protocol put in place for the burial of Coronavirus victims by the @NCDCgov and the Federal Ministry of Health, the funeral prayer and burial will be private.
“Thereafter, there will be no such ceremonies as condolence visits. Well meaning friends, family members and the general public are encouraged to pray for the repose of Abba Kyari’s soul.”
Mallam Shehu speaking at the graveside of Kyari said that President Buhari, being a religious person, had accepted the development as the will of God.
“These are not things that we have a choice in, it’s providence, it’s God who says who goes and who stays. The president, obviously a deeply religious person, takes it that it cannot be helped, at the end of the day, all of us will also go that way”, he said.
The president’s Chief of Staff was on self-isolation after testing positive for Coronavirus late March.
He was subsequently moved to Lagos for treatment.
Those at the funeral rights at his home were male ministers (mostly from the North), including Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama.
His last statements: ‘I hope to be back at my desk soon’ [SUN]
The late Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari had on March 29, in a statement he personally signed broken his silence on his testing positive to Coronavirus disease.
The deceased said he was looking forward to resuming at his desk.
He had said he was feeling well, but would move to Lagos where he had made his own arrangement.
He also said in other not to burden the healthcare system, which was already facing a lot of pressure following the outbreak of the virus on the nation’s shores, he is making his personal arrangements.
The statement read: “I am writing to let you know that on medical advice, I will transfer to Lagos later today for additional tests and observation. This is a precautionary measure. I feel well, but last week, I tested positive for Coronavirus, the pandemic that is sweeping the world. I have followed all the protocols government has announced to self-isolate and quarantine.
“I have made my own care arrangements to avoid further burdening the public health system, which faces so many pressures. Like many others that will test also positive, I have not experienced high fever or other symptoms associated with this new virus and have been working from home. I hope to be back at my desk very soon. I have a team of young, professional, knowledgeable and patriotic colleagues, whose dedication has been beyond the call of duty, who continue to work seven days a week, with no time of the day spared. We will continue to serve the President and people of Nigeria, as we have for the past five years.
“I want to thank all our fantastic, talented and brave healthcare professionals, working across the country in such a difficult time; all the good Samaritans looking out for the most vulnerable in our communities; the key workers that will keep our country going through this; friends and family and often strangers, who have sent me such warm wishes and displayed such a generosity of spirit.
“We should be calm, measured and diligent – be meticulous in your hygiene, especially with cleaning hands, if possible stay at home or keep your distance. Listen to good advice from the proper authorities: pay no heed to quack cures or fake news from social media. President Buhari will do whatever it takes to protect the health and safety of our people and get the country back on its feet as soon as possible.
“Like the whole world, we are dealing with a new disease. Our experts are learning more all the time about Coronavirus, what it does and how we can combat it. What we do know is that while some may become very sick, many others who contract the virus will not, and may have no symptoms at all. This is a disease that recognises no difference between North and South, men or women, rich or poor. We are all in this together.”
…Kyari’s death big lesson to Nigerians on COVID-19, says SGF [SUN]
Secretary to Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha yesterday said that the demise of the Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari, caused by Coronavirus should serve as proof to doubting Thomases that it is real and a matter of life and death.
Mustapha, who is also Chairman of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19, therefore, called on Nigerians to take the matter seriously and adhere to the advice of health authorities on how to prevent the spread of the disease.
“There are very big lessons to learn from the death of Abba Kyari. One of the key lessons for me is that this thing is real and it has come home. How closer can it be to us than this? That is why I keep saying that we should not play with this issue, it is not a joke.
“It has come to ravage our people, ravage our health and ravage our wealth as a nation, so we must take it more seriously and the advisory that have gone out about social distancing, washing of hands and staying at home are not punitive, they are meant for our good.
“We have seen it now, that it has come home to us. If we were thinking of people who had passed on as a result of COVID-19 from a distance, it is not far now. It is just like a brother or friend or a relative that has passed on. This is a man we worked with on a daily basis, you see him virtually every day, so it’s a big lesson that our people should not joke with this, we must wash our hands, stay at home, use sanitizers and follow all the advisories religiously.”
The SGF, however, expressed confidence that Nigeria would beat the disease because of the measures put in place by President Muhammadu Buhari.
“It is a personal loss to me, the President and to the nation. I believe Mallam Abba will be remembered for so many things. He has done a great job for the nation. Mallam Abba was a very good man and very determined, intellectually upright and he had a lot of foresight.
“A lot of people didn’t understand Mallam Abba, but I worked with him for three years and I can tell you that he is a wonderful person, he is a good man; deep down in his heart, he always meant well and I looked up to him as a senior brother in the course of the work that we did in the last three years.
“If I show you my phone, you will see some of the things that he was sending to me even when he was confirmed positive with COVID-19, he was still sending jokes. Every piece of joke he picked up in the Internet he would send it to me.”
No condolence visits for Abba Kyari –Presidency [SUN]
…As Osinbajo, Atiku, Tinubu, Lawan, Gbajabiamila, Anyim, govs, others extol late CoS
The late Chief of Staff to President Muhammady Buhari, who passed on Friday was yesterday buried at the Gudu Cemetery in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja at 11:30am after funeral prayers at his residence.
Earlier, shortly after the corpse of Kyari was brought in an ambulance to the Defence House in Abuja, the Senior Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President, Garba Shehu, speaking on behalf of the Presidency, announced that there would be no condolence visits to the bereaved family.
He said: “This funeral and the burial that will follow are strictly private. Please members of the public are advised to stay and observe the NCDC regulation and those announced by the ministry of health.
“After this event, there will be no ceremony such as the condolence visits. People must observe existing regulations as put in place by NCDC and federal ministry of health.”
Explaining why the ambulance that bore the body of the late Kyari made a brief stopover at the Defence House, where he lived until his demise, Shehu said: “The wife of the deceased will have her view of him, that is her wish before he is taken away finally.”
Shehu had earlier tweeted via his verified twitter handle @GarShehu that the burial of Kyari would be done in strict observation of the protocol put in place for the burial of Coronavirus victims by the NCDC, and the Federal Ministry of Health, the funeral prayer and burial will be private.
“Thereafter, there will be no such ceremonies as condolence visits. Well-meaning friends, family members and the general public are encouraged to pray for the repose of Abba Kyari’s soul.”
In the wake of the demise Kyari, there has been outpouring of condolences from political leaders and notable personalities, eulogizing the late Kyari, who played a central role in the Buhari administration.
Through his verified Twitter handle @ProfOsinbajo, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo said: “Dolapo and I express our sympathies to the President, Mrs Kulu Kyari, the children, and members of the family on the passing of Mallam Abba Kyari, Chief of Staff to the President. May the Lord comfort and be with you all in Jesus name, amen.”
In the same vein, former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar condoled President Muhammadu Buhari over the death of his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Abba Kyari.
Atiku, in a statement by his media aide, Paul Ibe, described Kyari as a loyal aide of the President, adding that his death caused by COVID-19 should galvanise Nigerians to support efforts to contain the pandemic in the country.
“We are bound by common humanity and I therefore feel and share your grief at this moment. May Allah forgive the deceased and grant him eternal bliss in paradise,” Atiku stated.
On her part, the First Lady, Mrs. Aisha Buhari tweeted: “From God Almighty we came and to him we shall return. I condole with Mrs. Kulu Abba Kyari and the entire family of Late Malam Abba Kyari over the death of their husband and father.
“I pray that Allah (SWT) will forgive his shortcomings, grant him Al-Jannatul Firdausi and give the family the fortitude and patience to bear the loss, Ameen.”
The First Lady while wishing all those undergoing treatment for COVID-19 in isolations centres across the country a speedy recovery, prayed for an end to pandemic.
In a statement by his Special Adviser (Media) Ola Awoniyi, President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, while expressing his heartfelt condolence to Kyari’s family over the great loss, described him as a very competent, dedicated and loyal aide, who was a pillar in President Muhammadu’s Buhari’s administration.
He said further: “He was a man of deep convictions and courage who understood his role and performed it with uncommon dedication and effectiveness.
“Similarly, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, said Kyari would be remembered for his selfless and dedicated service to the country, right from his days as a private citizen through his days in President Buhari’s administration.
Former President of the Senate and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Anyim Pius Anyim, in a condolence letter to the President Buhari, said, “Kyari was a hard-working, loyal and dependable Chief of Staff who discharged his duties with uncommon commitment and diligence,” adding, “Every well-meaning person who encountered him in office came away with the conclusion that he knew his onions and went about his duties with candour.”
National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, reacting to the demise of Kyari described him as a man of accomplishment
A condolence message signed by him and released by his Media Office yesterday in Lagos, Asiwaju Tinubu said: “He was an extremely able, loyal and talented man who dedicated his considerable skills to the success of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari. Whatever someone will try to say about Mallam Kyari, the words will prove insufficient. His influence in government and throughout the land was substantial and profound. He will surely be missed. “
Plateau State Governor and Chairman, Northern Governors Forum, Simon Bako Lalong in a condolence message, commiserated with President Buhari, and described Kyari as a “deeply resourceful person who provided tremendous support to President Buhari and his Administration, and served Nigeria with patriotism, dignity, honesty and passion.”
Governor Lalong recalled the friendship and support, which the late Chief of Staff always extended to members of the Forum and Plateau State, describing him as a man who had zeal for peace and progress of Nigeria.
Governor Adegboyega Oyetola of Osun State in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ismail Omipidan, said that the late “Kyari was a loyal and dedicated Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari and served the nation diligently in that capacity. His death is a great loss to Mr. President, his family and the entire nation.”
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, also described Kyari’s death as an unfortunate surprise. The monarch stated this through his Director of Media and Public Affairs, Comrade Moses Olafare in a release yesterday.
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma in his condolence message to commiserate with President Buhari. Kyari’s family, Nigerians and people of Borno State, said the Chief of Staff to the President “was a Pan-Nigerian who devoted his energy and time to the service of his country.”
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said the late “Kyari was an astute public servant with a heavy heart” noting that he was a “dedicated Nigerian, a deeply committed and patriotic citizen, who contributed remarkably to the smooth and successful running of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.’’
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu described late Abba Kyari as a competent, trusted, loyal, strong right hand man who promoted, protected and defended the interest of his boss, President Muhammadu Buhari, both in good times and adversity.
“Even in death, the fond memories and indelible strides Mallam Abba Kyari left on earth will be celebrated for a long time. We remember a cerebral Nigerian who excelled in his private dealings, professional endeavours and public service.
“The party condoles with Kyari’s immediate family, the President, leaders and members of the APC and the people and government of Borno State over the painful loss.”
The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), yesterday laid politics aside, to , commiserate with President Muhammadu Buhari on the death of his Chief of Staff, Mallam Abba Kyari.
The PDP in a terse statement from its National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, described Kyari’s death “as depressing and saddening.”
The party, while condoling with the family of the late Chief of Staff and the country at large, equally commiserated with the families of all the victims of COVID-19 pandemic and prayed for the speedy recovery of all those infected, who are receiving treatment in various isolation centers across the country.
Chairman of the North-Central Governor’s Forum and Governor of Niger State, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mary Noel Berje, eulogized the exemplary leadership qualities of the deceased, stressing that he was dedicated to nation-building and committed to national integration.
He also pointed out that the late Abba Kyari was “a simple, straightforward and loyal officer”, adding however that his selfless service would be greatly missed in the presidency.
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq also described the death of Kyari as a huge loss to the country and prayed Almighty Allah to grant him Al-jannah firdaus.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice (AGF), Abubakar Malami (SAN) said: “The death of late Chief of Staff, Malam Abba Kyari flung us in deep pain and immutable agony. Kyari was a paragon of virtue, patriotic citizen who rendered selfless service to Nigeria. As a dedicated individual with an unflinching commitment, his passion to nation building was unwavering. He was, indeed, loyalty personified.”
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, who said he was saddened by the passage of Kyari, noted that the late elder statesman played a strategic role in the current administration.
He commiserated with the family, President Buhari and the entire Presidency, and urged them to be consoled by the legacies of integrity and capacity exhibited by Kyari in service to nation.
Former Deputy Governor of Osun State, Senator Iyiola Omisore, also pained by the demise of Kyari said the late Chief of Staff to the President, was a consummate administrator and lawyer with a strong sense of duty, loyalty and commitment.
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Idris Ahmed Wase, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Umar Puma, said the demise of Kyari was a great loss to the present administration and the nation in general, noting that he exhibited patriotism, integrity and undying zeal to ensure a better Nigeria.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, in a condolence message on his Twitter handle, @GeoffreyOnyeama, said he had lost a friend and brother as result of Kyari’s demise, recalled they were school mates at the University of Warwick, England. Kyari was the best man during the Minister’s wedding and also godfather to Onyeama’s first son.
Like most other notable Nigerians, the minority caucus in the House of Representatives said it receieved with shock the demise of Kyari. The Minority Leader, Ndudi Elumelu, in a statement, described him as “a very humble, loyal and exceptionally dedicated Nigerian who gave his best to the service of our dear fatherland, particularly as the Chief of Staff to the President.
“Our caucus condoles with President Muhammadu Buhari, the Kyari family, the government and people of Borno state as well as the Federal Executive Council and prays the Almighty Allah, in His mercies, to grant eternal rest to the faithful departed as well as give the bereaved the fortitude to bear this huge loss.”
Cross River State governor, Prof. Ben Ayade, who built a warm relationship with Kyari expressed profound shock and sadness over the late Chief of Staff,, adding that he was utterly depressed by the sad news.