By Olayemi Esan
President Muhammadu Buhari has extended deepest condolences to the Aguiyi-Ironsi family, and government and people of Abia State on the passing of Chief Mrs Victoria Aguiyi-Ironsi, wife of Nigeria’s first military Head of State, Major General Johnson Thomas Aguiyi-Ironsi.Lady Victoria Aguiyi-Ironsi died on Monday at the age of 88.
The President in a statement by his media aide, Femi Adesina, on Monday, affirmed that Lady Victoria’s incredible strength and exceptional courage during one of the darkest moments in our nation’s history pedestals her as a mother of the nation, God-fearing and a foremost woman of valour.
The President noted that the former First Lady will be remembered for laying a solid foundation for women’s leadership role in the seat of power and as a founding member of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Associatio
n (NAOWA) as she passionately championed the welfare and wellbeing of families of military officers.
The President recognised that 55 years after the death of General J.T Aguiyi-Ironsi, Lady Victoria never stopped working for the greater good of Nigeria, and for peace, stability, healing and reconciliation in the land.
The President sincerely hoped that Lady Victoria’s labours for the country will not be in vain, and joins all Nigerians in praying for the repose of the soul of the departed and comfort for those who mourn.