By Paul Effiong, Abuja
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pope Francis at 88 years, describing him as a towering spiritual leader and a tireless advocate for global peace, compassion and human dignity.
In a condolence message issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi, the speaker extolled Pope Francis qualities of pushing for global peace and unity.
The speaker extended his heartfelt sympathies to the Catholic Church, the global Christian community, among others.
The statement noted that Pope Francis devoted his life to the service of God and humanity, using his papacy to bridge divides, uplift the poor and call the world to a higher moral consciousness.
“He was not just a religious leader, but a beacon of hope and a global statesman who stood for peace, unity and the common good,” the speaker said.
He noted that even in his final public appearance during the Easter Mass at the Vatican, the Pope continued his impassioned call for an end to conflicts across the globe.
“From war-torn regions to forgotten corners of the world, Pope Francis never ceased to raise his voice for justice, mercy and reconciliation.
“I join Christians, particularly the Catholic faithful across the world, to mourn the passing of this extraordinary leader, a unifier and a peacemaker who used his God-given gift of leadership to inspire faith, hope and love.
“Since his election in 2013, Pope Francis has made transformative contributions to the church and Christendom at large. He led an exemplary life marked by humility, simplicity and an unwavering dedication to God and the welfare of humanity,” Abbas said.
