President Muhammadu Buhari has sympathised with family, friends and professional associates of renowned gospel singer, Sammie Okposo, whose demise on Friday left many in Nigeria and across the world severely shocked.
The President, in a statement on Friday by his Media Adviser, Femi Adesina, commiserated with the Christian community, particularly Okposo’s colleagues in gospel music and the younger generation, who have over the years identified with his elevating style of praise and worship.
Buhari noted the unique platform of worship created by Okposo, Okposo Praise Party, his creative contributions to the Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, and the inspiring role he played in grooming talents and mentoring them to stardom.
He prayed for the repose of the musician’s soul, urging the family to find solace in his investments of love.
Also, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State commiserated with the Okposo family and people of Isoko in the state over the passing of Sammie Okposo.
Okowa’s condolence was conveyed in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, on Friday in Asaba.
According to him, late Okposo, who died on Friday in Lagos at the age of 51 , hailed from Ivori-Irri, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.
Okowa, Vice-Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), expressed sadness over the passing of the “Wellu Wellu” crooner.
He said that Okposo’s death was a big loss to the deceased’s family, Delta State and lovers of gospel music across the world.
Okowa said Okposo’s passing was particularly painful , considering his immense talent and outstanding contributions to the growth of gospel music locally and globally.
The governor described late Okposo as a gentleman gospel artiste, who contributed to the growth and development of modern entertainment industry in Nigeria.
He said that as one of the scions of the gospel genre of the music industry, Okposo would be greatly missed by his colleagues and fans.
“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I mourn the passing of an illustrious son of our state and a great minister in gospel music
“The news of his death was shocking and it is indeed, a great loss because he was a valued asset to Deltans and Nigerians, especially as his songs continue to inspire many to worship God,” he said.
Okowa prayed God to accept the deceased’s soul and grant his family and friends the fortitude to bear his exit.
