By DAVID IORJA, Abuja –
President Muhammadu Buhari said on Monday he received with deep sadness evening information on passing of his longtime friend and associate, Malam Isma’ila Isa Funtua, who was Life Patron of International Press Institute (IPI) and Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN).
The former NPAN President and Managing Director of The Democrat Newspaper, reportedly died of cardiac arrest Monday night.
Funtua, who was also the Chairman of Bulet Construcion company, will be buried according to Islamic rites on Tuesday, July 21.
In a statement by his Senior Special Assistant (Media & Publicity), Garba Shehu, President Buhari condoled with family members, government and people of Katsina State, and all associates of the the late Funtua, especially the media industry, on the loss, describing him as “greatly admired and respected’’.
President Buhari believed the demise of the publisher and businessman had created a huge gap as Malam Funtua consistently stood by him in his political journey.
The President prayed to Allah for repose of Malam Funtua’s soul, and to grant the family strength and fortitude to bear the loss.
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