President Muhammadu Buhari has on behalf of the government and people of Nigeria condoled with President Cyril Ramaphosa, South Africans and the global Christian body, particularly the Anglican Communion, over the passing of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu on Sunday, December 26, 2021 at the age of 90.

Buhari in a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, said he believes the death of the iconic teacher, human rights activist, scholar and philanthropist, has created a void in a world in dire need of wisdom, integrity, courage and sound reasoning, qualities that the Nobel Peace Prize Winner typified and exemplified in words and actions.

As a South African, global citizen and renowned world leader, the president affirmed that the historic role Archbishop Tutu played in the fight against apartheid, enduring physical assaults, jail terms and prolonged exile, took him beyond the pulpit to global, political relevance, and his position, under President Nelson Mandela, in heading the Truth and Reconciliation Commission provided healing and direction for his country and the world.

President Buhari commiserated with Leah Tutu, the spouse of the spiritual leader and lifelong partner in the struggle against injustice, corruption and inequality, the Tutu family, board and staff of Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, Elders and Nobel Laureate Group, urging solace that the voice of the scholar and teacher, his published works, and inspirational quotes will resonate through generations, bringing more light and clarity to religious diversity, democracy and good governance.

The president prayed for the repose of the soul of Archbishop Tutu, whose life and times sent an unforgettable message of love and forgiveness.