The Adamawa State Government has paid last respect to Nigeria’s elder Statesman, the late Air Commodore Dan Suleiman as his body was laid to rest in his home town of Guyuk Local Government Area
Adamawa Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri during the burial described Suleiman’s death as a great loss to the nation.
“The news of his death is disheartening to his relatives, friends and colleagues in more ways than one. But little can be done at the moment, other than mourn a life well lived, a life of impact, and a name familiar to many who thrived under his tutelage both in the Military and the fight for democracy in Nigeria.
“It is with deep sense of great loss but total submission to the will of God that I note the demise of one of Adamawa’s great leader.
“He was indeed a respected Politician, who was always mindful of his integrity and used his Military background and discipline to engineer positive changes in the behaviour and character of his Children and those close to him.”
The Governor noted that the late Military tactician would be sorely missed as he always put his deep knowledge and understanding of issues at the disposal of those who followed him.
He emphasized that the Air Commodore Suleiman stood for justice and the well-being of his people and that the gap he has left at this critical period of Nigeria’s political history when his services are needed most is painful.
Governor Fintiri recalled that the late Suleiman drew attention to the various societal ills and suggested corrective steps which brought calming words during the period of turmoil.
“Dan Suleiman was an honest man, who stood for the truth in his entire life, the state had taken solace in the fact that he dedicated his life to serve God and humanity.
“At this period of mourning, I on behalf of the the people and government of Adamawa State urge the traditional ruler of Guyuk, HRM Kuruhaye Dishon Dansanda 11, the family and the entire Lunguda chiefdom to take solace in the fact that he led a good life, an unbiased man who stood for the truth all his entire life.”
The late Air Commodore Dan Suleiman who died at 80, was a member of General Murtala Muhammed’s Supreme Military Council, military governor of Plateau State, Chairman of the Middle Belt Forum, a Federal Commissioner for Special Duties and he was instrumental in founding the ECOWAS.
He was also Chairman of Allied Bank of Nigeria Plc, one of the founders of NADECCO, leader of the People’s Democratic Party in Adamawa State as well as former Ambassador to Russia.