Senate President Condoles Rivers’ People, Govt Over David-West’s Death

BY EDMOND ODOK, ABUJA – President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan has condoled the government and people of Rivers State on the death of a two-time Federal Minister, Professor Tam David-West.

The fiery Social critic, who died on Monday at the age of 83 years, was a Minister of Petroleum and Energy and later Minister of Mines, Power and Steel.

Senator Lawan noted that the late Prof David-West contributed immensely to the development of Nigeria as a teacher and political office holder.

“Professor Tam David-West was a vocal social critic who lived what he preached and never compromised his principles all through his lifetime”, the Senate President said.

A statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Ola Awoniyi quoted Senator Lawan as saying that Prof David-West will be missed for his deep and frank analysis of social challenges.

“Aside from pointing directions from the ivory tower, when the calls came for him to serve at the highest level of government, he discharged his duties diligently and conscientiously,” Lawan said.

He condoled with his family, the government and people of Rivers State and prayed that God will give them the fortitude to bear the great loss.

The former Minister died at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Oyo State, a family source said.

According to the source, the octogenarian died at about 11:05 am on Monday after being hospitalised for about 11 days.

The deceased, a reputable consultant virologist, was rushed to the hospital when he suddenly fell ill.