President Muhammadu Buhari and Senate President Ahmad Lawan have joined the government and people of Kaduna State to mourn the passing of Architect Barnabas Yusuf Bala (Bantex).
Bantex was a former Deputy Governor of the State during the first tenure of Governor Nasir Ahmed El-Rufai between 2015 and 2019.
President Buhari, in a statement by presidential spokesman Garba Shehu described Architect Bantex as a true gentleman and consummate professional, adding that he “will be fondly remembered for his many years of distinguished service in his home State, his patriotism to the nation as well as forthrightness in politics.”
The President also affirms that the former Deputy Governor, who served as chairman of Kaura Local Government Council and member representing Kaura Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, was a potent voice on peace, stability and progress at the State and National level.
The President extends his deepest condolences to the family of Bala, his friends, associates and many followers, who benefited immensely from his responsible stewardship as a public servant and political office holder.
President Buhari prays God almighty to grant the departed eternal rest and comfort those who mourn the irreparable loss.
In his condolence message also, Senate President Ahmad Lawan, commiserated with the family, friends and political associates of the departed.
“The death of Architect Bala is a great loss to the people of Kaduna State whom he served with great dedication as Deputy Governor and as a member of the House of Representatives.
“He will also be sadly missed by the Progressives family in his home state and across Nigeria.
“Architect Bala made indelible contributions to the political development of our great country and particularly to the growth of the All Progressives Congress which he once served as Kaduna State Chairman,” Lawan said.
He prayed Allah to forgive his sins and to accept his soul into eternal rest.
Lawan also prayed that Allah grants his loved ones the fortitude to bear the loss.
