Buhari reacts to President Essebsi’s death

President Muhammadu Buhari has joined the people and government of Tunisia in mourning President Beji Caid Essebsi, who died at age 92.

Buhari noted that the passing of Essebsi, who is the first democratically elected leader of the North African country, will create a vacuum in Tunisia’s polity.

He urged citizens to find encouragement and solace in the legacies of President Essebsi who passed away on Thursday.

The President said: “His death marks the end of an era in the politics of Tunisia. The country has lost a father figure.

“The Nigerian government and people extend heartfelt condolences to his family, and the government and people of Tunisia.”

Essebsi was admitted to hospital on Wednesday but officials did not say why he was receiving treatment.

Essebsi won Tunisia’s first free elections in 2014 following Arab uprisings across the region.

Earlier this year, he announced he would not stand for elections expected in November.

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