By Egena Sunday Ode
President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed deep grief over the demise of his long time friend and associate, Malam Isma’ila Isa Funtua.
Popularly known as Bulet, Malam Isa Funtua reportedly died of cardiac arrest on Monday night.
In a statement, President Buhari referred to him as “ greatly admitted and respected.”
The statement signed by the his Spokesman, Garba Shehu read: “President Muhammadu Buhari received with deep sadness on Monday evening information on passing of his longtime friend and associate, Malam Isma’ila Isa Funtua, who was Life Patron of International Press Institute and Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN).
“The President condoles with family members, government and people of Katsina State, and all associates of the former President of NPAN, especially the media industry, on the loss, describing him as “greatly admired and respected’’.
“President Buhari believes the demise of the publisher and businessman has created a huge gap as Malam Funtua consistently stood by him in his political journey.
“The President prayed to Allah for repose of Malam Funtua’s soul, and to grant the family strength and fortitude to bear the loss.”
