BY EDMOND ODOK – President Muhammadu Buhari has described late Senator Franca Afegbua, first female Senator of Nigeria, as an Amazon whose adventure into political leadership lifted the glass ceiling for women in the Second Republic legislature.
In statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina on Monday, the President condoled with family, friends and associates of late Afegbua, noting that historical feat completely altered the perception and position of women, her State and the country, especially with the projection of exemplary leadership traits of empathy and inclusiveness, which earned her trust and respect.
Adesina said President Buhari shares in the pain of loss with the Government and people of Edo State, and her community, where she had remained an inspiration to young women, lifting many out of hopelessness through mentorship, and creating opportunities for others to realise their dreams in various careers.
The President prayed that the Almighty God will receive the soul of the departed, while urging the family to approximate her good works for posterity.
Also speaking on the passing of Afegbua, who represented Bendel North Senatorial district of Old Bendel State, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State described her as a “pace-setter, trail-blazer and visioner” who remains an inspiration for women in Nigeria and across the African continent.
Governor Obaseki said; “I am saddened by the news of the passing of Nigeria’s first democratically elected female senator, who represented Bendel North Senatorial District of old Bendel State (now Edo and Delta States)
“She was an entrepreneur who championed the cause of female representation in government and gender mainstreaming at a time when it was a herculean task. She was a trailblazer who deserves to be celebrated for her bravery and exemplary exploits.”
According to Obaseki, the death of Afegbua, who represented Bendel North Senatorial district of Old Bendel State, remains a huge loss because she was an inspiration to may young girls, who are in need of mentors.
Elected under the National Party of Nigeria (NPN), to represent the old Bendel North Senatorial district, Senator Afegbua died on Sunday, March 12, 2023 at the age of 79 years.
