Senate asks FG to immortalise ex-chief of staff Mohammed Abdullahi

The senate has called on the federal government to immortalise Mohammed Abdullahi, the retired general and former chief of staff to ex-presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.

The call followed a motion jointly sponsored by Lola Ashiru, senator representing Kwara south, and Suleiman Sadiq, senator representing Kwara north, during plenary on Wednesday.

The lawmakers described Abdullahi as an exemplary public servant and statesman whose life was dedicated to the service of Nigeria.

The senate resolved to commiserate with the people of Kwara state, the Nigerian armed forces, and the entire nation over what it described as an “irreparable loss”.

Abba Moro, senate minority leader, described Abdullahi’s death as a huge loss to the country.

“The General Mohammed that I know is a perfect gentleman, an embodiment of humility, a professional and gallant officer. Nigeria has lost a rare gem, a mentor, and a patriot,” Moro said.

Adamu Aliero, senator representing Kebbi central, said Abdullahi played a key role in maintaining stability during Obasanjo’s administration.

“I knew General Mohammed as far back as 1999 when I came in as governor and he was the chief of staff to President Obasanjo. He contributed a lot to the stability of Nigeria,” Aliero said.

Suleiman Sadiq, senator representing Kwara north, described Abdullahi as an elder statesman known for his discipline and capacity.

“It’s a loss for Nigeria because he is an elder statesman. General Mohammed Abdullahi is trusted and noted with discipline and capacity,” Sadiq said.

Orji Kalu, senator representing Abia north, said the late general was a bridge between state governors and the presidency.

“General Mohammed was a good man — a man who would tell you the truth whether you wanted to hear it or not,” Kalu said.

“When I was quarrelling with Obasanjo, he was the bridge between me, Obasanjo, and Abia state.”

Lawmakers also observed a minute of silence in his honour and urged the federal government to name a national monument or institution after him in recognition of his distinguished service.

The upper chamber further mandated its committees on defence and national security to convey its condolences to the bereaved family.