August 23, (THEWILL) – Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed “his deepest condolences” to the Aguiyi-Ironsi family, and the government and people of Abia State on the passing of Mrs. Victoria Nwanyiocha Aguiyi-Ironsi, wife of the first military Head of State, late General J.T Aguiyi-Ironsi.
THEWILL reports that Mrs Aguiyi-Ironsi, died at the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia on Monday morning at the age of 97.
In his condolence message to the Aguiyi-Ironsi family and people of Abia State, President Buhari described the deceased, who died on Monday, as a God-fearing and foremost woman of valour.
The President, in a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, said Mrs Aguiyi-Ironsi never stopped working for the greater good of Nigeria, and for peace, stability, healing and reconciliation in the land despite her husband’s death.
The statement read, “President Muhammadu Buhari extends deepest condolences to the Aguiyi-Ironsi family, and government and people of Abia State on the passing of Chief Mrs Victoria Aguiyi-Ironsi, wife of the first military Head of State, Major General Johnson Thomas Aguiyi-Ironsi.
“The President affirms that Lady Victoria’s incredible strength and exceptional courage during one of the darkest moments in our nation’s history pedestals her as a mother of the nation, God-fearing and a foremost woman of valour.
“The President notes that the former First Lady will be remembered for laying a solid foundation for women’s leadership role in the seat of power and as a founding member of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association; she passionately championed the welfare and wellbeing of families of military officers.
“The President recognises that 55 years after the death of General J.T Aguiyi-Ironsi, Lady Victoria never stopped working for the greater good of Nigeria, and for peace, stability, healing and reconciliation in the land.
“The President sincerely hopes that Lady Victoria’s labours for the country will not be in vain, and joins all Nigerians in praying for the repose of the soul of the departed and comfort for those who mourn.”
