We will miss Achebe’s immense patriotism and commitment to a better Nigeria – Jonathan

President Goodluck has received with immense
sadness, news of the passing away of Nigeria’s
globally acclaimed writer, scholar, tutor, cultural icon,
nationalist and artist of the very first rank, Prof.
Chinua Achebe.
President Jonathan joins Prof. Achebe’s family, his
friends, colleagues, past and present students,
admirers and all who have learnt indelible lessons of
human existence from his award winning works of
literature in mourning the legendary author.
As he mourns however, the President is consoled by
the knowledge that Prof. Achebe will live forever in
the hearts and minds of present and future
generations through his great works which brought
him enduring international fame and countless
honours.
The President believes that Prof. Achebe’s frank,
truthful and fearless interventions in national affairs
will be greatly missed at home in Nigeria because
while others may have disagreed with his views, most
Nigerians never doubted his immense patriotism and
sincere commitment to the building of a greater,
more united and prosperous nation that all Africans
and the entire black race could be proud of.
He recalls that with maturity and global stature, Prof.
Achebe fearlessly spoke the truth as he saw it and
became, as he advanced in age, a much revered
national icon and conscience of the nation who will
be eternally honoured for his contributions to
national discourse as well as the immense fame and
glory he brought to his fatherland.
On behalf of himself, his family, the Federal
Government and all Nigerians, President Jonathan
extends heartfelt condolences to Prof Achebe’s family.
He prays that God Almighty will receive Prof. Achebe’s
great soul and grant him eternal rest from his
outstanding earthly labours.