Former Military President, General Ibrahim B. Babangida,IBB, has condoled with the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress,Asiwaju Bola Tinubu over the death of his son ,Jide.
IBB said “I empathize with you and members of your family over this irredeemable loss; especially of a young man, with such adorable background and ebullient upbringing. Even though you live a public life, because of the peculiar nature of your engagements, I have never heard the names of your children in circles that are unbefitting of their training.
A statement signed by Prince Kassim Afegbua, his Media Spokesman to General Babangida reads thus in full. “ It struck me with helpless awe to learn of the sudden death of your first son Jide, on Tuesday, 31st, October 2017. I feel a sense of personal loss over this sad incident which usually tends to test our faith in Allah as we sojourn through life. We often times feel a sense of emptiness and nostalgia each time we lose even the elderly, no matter how old, let alone a dear son who is just starting to form his own life, with such a promising future.
“When death occurs, it leaves a gaping hole in our hearts such that only time could heal. When death strikes, it offers us an opportunity to reminisce about life and the whole essence of living. It affords us a sober reflection of our conduct, engagements and struggles in appreciation of life’s enduring trials and
tribulations. Death cuts deep into our hearts and stunts our psyche. It creates famished emotions and painful thoughts about life and its ephemerality. And often times, we are helpless in questioning the Almighty Allah, the decider of our fate, the owner of all creations and taker of all lives, except that as humans, we cannot stop agonizing when we lose dear ones.
“I empathize with you and members of your family over this irredeemable loss; especially of a young man, with such adorable background and ebullient upbringing. Even though you live a public life, because of the peculiar nature of your engagements, I have never heard the names of your children in circles that are unbefitting of their training. Such decent upbringing and comportment are attributes that come with discipline, sound character, mutual respect and credibility, all of which Jide represented. A befitting solace will be to commit all others into the hands of the Almighty Allah to grant them long life, good health and assured future as they continue to grow from strength to strength.
“ As parents, our usual prayers have always been that our children should see our end so that they could give us befitting burial anytime Allah calls us home; and not the other way round. We cannot question Allah in his decision any time. We must strengthen our faith and be resolute in our belief and conviction that there is always a reason behind any occurrence. I do not know how to console you and condole with members of your family but be rest assured that I share in your grief at this sad event.
May the Almighty Allah comfort and console you. May He offer his protection and guard over the rest of the children and members of the family. May He grant you good health in your consistent efforts at helping to shape the destiny of the nation.
“On behalf of my family, please accept my hearty condolence at this moment of grief.”
