The Northern Governors Forum has expressed shock over the death of Mallam Isma’ila Isa Funtua, elder statesman, veteran journalist and a life patron of the International Press Institute and the Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria.
In a condolence message, Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Lalong said the Forum is saddened by the news of the demise of Malam Isma’ila whose sudden death was announced Monday evening.
He said, “This is a great loss to his family, the Northern Region and the entire Nation considering his immense contributions to national development.
Adding that he is one person that has built bridges among people of different ethnic, religious and political persuasions and also encouraged unity, peace and tolerance”.
Lalong said the late Isma’ila Funtua distinguished himself as a journalist where he not only led the clamour for freedom of expression and the press, but also encouraged responsible journalism practice that is geared towards nation-building and propagation of truth, justice and the fight against corruption.
Lalong said the business acumen, humility and hardwork of the late Mallam Funtua among his many achievements will continue to inspire the younger generation especially now that the nation is in dire need of role models.
The Northern Governor’s Forum Chairman also commiserated with President Muhammadu Buhari over this sad development as the late Mallam Funtua was his long term associate, supporter and political ally who did a lot to offer counsel to the Government on many issues.
He said Nigeria and particular the Northern Region will miss his wealth of wisdom and knowledge which he was ever ready to offer particularly during critical times.
Governor Lalong prayed God to grant his soul eternal rest and also give the bereaved family the strength to bear the loss.
(Edited by Sola Jaiyesimi)
