From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
The remains of the late Petroleum Minister, Dr. Rilwanu Lukman was yesterday laid to rest at the Emir’s palace Zaria amidst tears and praises from well-wishers.
The oil technocrat passed away on the early hours of Monday, in Vienna Austria at the age of 76.
The funeral prayer was led by the Imam Zaria Central Mosque, Sheikh Mohammed Sani Aliyu.
Dignitaries who witnessed the burial rite include Kaduna state governor, Alhaji Mukhtar Ramalan Yero , Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, Lamido of Adamawa, Mohammad Barkindo Mustapha, among other top government functionaries.
Speaking shortly after the prayers, Governor Yero said the death of the late elder statesman has created a vacuum that may be difficult to replace in the oil industry in the nearest future.
He further described him as a man who dedicated himself to the service of the country both in Nigeria and internationally.
He stressed that the passage of the oil magnet was a great loss to the people of Kaduna state and Nigeria at large, while praying for the repose of his soul and fortitude for the family to bear the loss.
Other dignitaries who paid their last respect to the former OPEC President and Secretary-General described him as a humble and detribalized man who gave his service to the country selflessly.
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