Tinubu: Mandela Represented The Moral Compass In African Leadership

Former Lagos State governor and national leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu Friday morning reacted to the death of former South African President, Dr Nelson Mandela, who died yesterday at the age of 95.

Tinubu said: “Mandela’s death signals the end of an era of the generation of African leaders, who never coveted power, but used power for the good of the greater number of their people. Africa has indeed lost an Icon, a formidable figure, a man of character and conviction and a political leader unequalled in the history of Africa. His demise is a great loss to Africa. I extend my sympathy to the government and people of South Africa and to the wife and family of Nelson Mandela”.

Tinubu continued: “He represented the moral compass in African leadership and the reference point for transparency and good governance. For long, his compelling story of struggle, prison life and journey to power will remain a classic and a tonic for others that may come after him. The Mandela story will forever resonate across the world and though retold over and over, will never lose its effect and power.

“Mandela demonstrated to the world that the black man is of a higher conscience, strong conviction and brilliance, compassionate and able to master his destiny. That is part of what Mandela represented. He made us proud as Africans. He led and showed us the way. He challenged us to heed the higher calling of selfless service. But much more, he boosted the African spirit and carved a new reputation for Africa in the global world.

“Mandela left a legacy of quality leadership, selfless service and sacrifice and a people centred governance. His legacy will endure. From his life, other African leaders are challenged to do right by their people and submit to democratic ideals. Sadly, we have seen more African leaders jettison or depart from the Mandela option. Many of them have become sit tight leaders, while others amongst them have sought by dubious constitutional processes to elongate their stay in power. They celebrate Mandela, but lack the discipline and morale fortitude of Mandela. They stand in the way of their people progressing and make Africa a laughing stock.

“Let his death revive us to the ideals of democracy. Let his political legacy, commitment to his people and the examples he left behind challenge us all to a renewed commitment to make our country and Africa better for the greatest number of her citizens”, the former Lagos governor said.

In the same vein, Interim National Secretary of APC, Alhaji Tijjani Musa Tumsah while mourning the late Madiba, said “A great loss has occurred to the continent of Africa and to the entire world. Mandela was a symbol of hope, who will be remembered for what he stood for, a man of integrity who fought for the emancipation of her people.

“An icon in the shoes of Mahatma Ghandi will be missed”.