The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has mourned the passing of ace broadcaster, lawyer and diplomat, Basharu Danlami Umaru, a consummate Nigerian and global icon, who died at the age of 63.
In a statement, Obaseki expressed sadness over his passing, noting that the late diplomat led the most impressive and inspirational life that impacted the world and paved the way for others to find purpose and essence.
The governor said, “I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of ace broadcaster, lawyer and diplomat, Basharu Danlami Umaru, a consummate Nigerian and global icon, who led a most impressive and inspirational life that impacted the world and paved the way for others to find purpose and essence.
“Born in Wukari, Taraba State, Basharu was a precocious child, who defied the odds to reach the pinnacle of his academic pursuit. He started out at the Pacelli School for the Blind and Partially Sighted Children, Surulere, Lagos, moved to Kings College, Lagos, and landed at Cambridge University, where he obtained two Masters Degrees.
“He was determined and passionate about education and cared deeply for the rights of persons living with disabilities, which drove his global advocacy at the United Nations for the rights of persons living with disabilities and their improved living conditions.”
Obaseki further noted, “Basharu was compassionate and highly talented, serenading audiences with his magnificent voice and deploying his intellect to the service of humanity.
“He served for many years as President of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities and as a member of the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
“Basharu will be fondly remembered for his activism, intellectual curiosity, and unwavering commitment to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities.”
He added, “I commiserate with the Basharu family, friends and associates and pray that God will grant all the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
