Chief Ernest Shonekan, Head of State during the Interim Government that replaced General Ibrahim Babangida’s military regime, has passed away.
Ernest Shonekan became the head of the transitional council, set up to organize the passing of power from military rule to a civilian government.
He became both the head of the council as well as being the head of government.
This was to ensure a smooth transition for Nigeria’s third Republican Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan was then placed in office by a decree signed by the outgoing military ruler of the country, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida; he assumed office as the interim head of state in August 1993.
Given the instability that came with the interim government and the dissatisfaction from civilians over the annulment of the June 12 elections, the administration was overthrown in a palace coup led by General Sani Abacha.
President Muhammadu Buhari, in a condolence message, stated that Chief Ernest Shonekan had shown in his life time his love and commitment to his country’s development, and the peace and unity which transcended the office and the fleeting nature of political power.
The president expressed his sympathy for the widow of Chief Ernest Shonekan, Mrs Margaret Shonekan, his loved ones, and the government and people of Ogun State, on behalf of the Federal Government.
He stated that Chief Ernest Shonekan left his flourishing business, a sacrifice that was made with courageous wisdom, to become the Head of State when his country needed him the most.
He asserted his beliefs that the country owed a debt of gratitude to “Chief Shonekan, the peacemaker” who until the end of his days never ceased to believe in his country and strive for a prosperous and democratic Nigeria.
The president prayed that the memory of the former Head of Government and Head of State will be for Nigeria a blessing, as he finds perfect peace with Almighty God.
The message was disclosed in a statement released by Femi Adesina, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity; the message was titled, ‘President Buhari Pays Tribute to the Life, Legacy of Chief Shonekan’.
Chief Ernest Shonekan died on the 11th of January, 2022 at Evercare Hospital in Lekki, Lagos State at the age of 85; at the time of his death, he was the third oldest surviving Head of State of Nigeria based on age.
