PDP consoles Atiku over death of Aide, Umar Pariya

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Tuesday expressed shock and deep sadness over the death of Umar Pariya, a close aide and ally to the party’s Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

The PDP in a statement by Kola Ologbondiyan, National Publicity Secretary, described Umar Pariya as “a very patriotic and trustworthy Nigerian, who gave his best in the service of our dear fatherland, particularly, as an aide to Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, while he was Vice President between 1999 and 2007.”

The party remarked that Umar Pariya discharged his duties to the nation with utmost humility and dedication. It maintained that his continued loyalty to Atiku Abubakar, even to the end, showed his firm belief and commitment to the ideals of justice, patriotism and national cohesion, which Atiku Abubakar stands for.

He was an exceptional and unassuming democrat who made immense contributions and sacrifices towards the upholding of rule of law and strict adherence to the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to ensure national stability, equity and fairness in governance, the party noted.

The PDP expressed that it is extremely saddened that Umar Pariya died at the time his wealth of experience, loyalty and contributions are needed the most.

The party commiserated with Umar Pariya’s family, the PDP Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, as well as friends and associates of the deceased, praying that God grants eternal rest to the faithful departed.