‘He fought for a united world’ — Atiku condoles with Christians over pope’s death

Atiku Abubakar, former vice-president, has condoled with the Catholic church and the global Christian community over the death of Pope Francis.

The head of the Catholic church died on Easter Monday aged 88.

In his condolence message, Abubakar described the late pope as a moral compass whose reign was defined by humility, courage, and a selfless devotion to humanity.

“It is with a heart heavy with sorrow that I extend my deepest condolences to the Holy See, the Catholic Church in Nigeria and across the world, and the entire Christian faithful on the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis,” he said.

“The departure of Pope Francis marks the end of an era defined by humility, moral courage, and an unwavering commitment to the service of humanity.

“He was a trailblazer who dared to walk where no one has gone. He was a shepherd of the most vulnerable and worked for a better and united world.

“Pope Francis was a Pontiff who walked among the people, whose voice echoed the cries of the poor and whose hands reached toward those cast aside by the world.

“His papacy was a bridge of compassion in a time of division, a balm of grace in a wounded world.”

The politician said it is perhaps fitting that the pontiff passed away on a sacred day for Christians.

“To Catholics in Nigeria and beyond, and to the Christian community worldwide, I share in your sorrow and stand with you in prayer,” Abubakar said.

“May the memory of Pope Francis continue to inspire us toward unity, compassion, and peace. And may his soul, now freed from the burdens of this world, find eternal rest in the presence of the Almighty.”

On Easter Sunday, the pope was pictured greeting crowds from the gallery of St Peter’s Basilica after celebrating mass with the faithful.

Francis had been battling bilateral pneumonia and was discharged from hospital on March 23.