By Abiola Olawale
A former Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan, has expressed his sadness over the death of Kenya’s political titan and former Prime Minister, Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 80.
The New Diplomat reports that Odinga, a towering figure in Kenyan and African politics, died in India where he was reportedly undergoing treatment after suffering a cardiac arrest.
Reacting to the development, Jonathan eulogized Odinga as a committed Pan-Africanist and a relentless advocate for democratic ideals.
Jonathan, in a statement titled “Adieu H.E. Raila Odinga” shared on his official X account on Thursday, paid a glowing tribute to the late Kenyan statesman, whom he hailed for his courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to democracy in Africa.
“I am saddened by the news of the passing of H.E. Raila Odinga, former Prime Minister of Kenya and a distinguished African statesman whose life symbolised resilience, courage, and democratic struggle in Africa.
“Kenya has lost a patriot, and our continent has lost a great leader, one who understood that leadership is not about self, but about service; who believed and looked forward to Africa’s greatness and ascendancy”, the statement partly read.
The former Nigerian president further celebrated Odinga as a fellow advocate of democracy and a devoted pan-Africanist whose impact would continue to resonate across generations.
He prayed for history to remember Odinga kindly and for Africa to draw continued inspiration from his legacy.
“I honour him not just as a brother in the cause of democracy, but as a committed pan-Africanist whose light will continue to shine.
“May history remember him kindly, and may Africa continue to be blessed by his hope, wisdom, and sacrifice”, Jonathan’s statement concluded.
