Buhari Mourns Shehu Malami, former Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, who dies at 85

President Muhammadu Buhari, Monday, reacted to the death of a former Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, Dr. Shehu Malami describing it as “sad and shocking”.

The President, who said he was “absolutely stunned” to hear the sad news, said the former diplomat’s demise was “another reminder of how fragile life is.”

Buhari’s reaction to the death of the Sokoto Prince and business mogul, who was also the former Sarkin Sudan of Wurno, was contained in a condolence message released by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu.

“He was a business leader respected globally who believed in this country’s economic prowess,” Buhari eulogised the former diplomat. “He was an icon of business and industry and a graceful traditionalist.

‘‘His passing is a big loss to the nation. Condolences to his family and friends, the Sultanate and the government and people of Sokoto State. May his soul rest in peace.”

Dr Shehu Malami died in Cairo, Egypt, after a brief illness. He  was aged 85.

Malami, who marked his 80th birthday in 2017 with the presentation of a book titled: Shehu Malami: A Prince of the Caliphate. Selected speeches and commentaries, was highly respected among the elite.