Buhari mourns Isa Funtua

President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed deep sadness on the death of his longtime friend and associate, Malam Isma’ila Isa Funtua, who was Life Patron of International Press Institute and Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN).

Funtua reportedly died of a cardiac arrest on Monday.

The President condoled witha family members, government and people of Katsina State, and all associates of the former President of NPAN, especially the media industry, on the loss, describing him as “greatly admired and respected’’.

A presidency statement on Monday night said Buhari believed the demise of the publisher and businessman had created a huge gap as Malam Funtua consistently stood by him in his political journey.

The President prayed to Allah for repose of Malam Funtua’s soul, and to grant the family strength and fortitude to bear the loss, added the statement by presidential spokesman, Garba Shehu.