Former Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan, has expressed profound sorrow at the passing of H.E. Raila Odinga, Kenya’s former Prime Minister and a towering figure in African politics, describing him as a patriot and a distinguished statesman whose life embodied resilience, courage, and an unwavering commitment to democracy.
In a heartfelt statement posted on his verified Facebook page on Thursday, Jonathan mourned Odinga’s death, noting that Kenya had lost a true patriot and Africa a great leader.
“H.E. Raila Odinga’s life symbolised resilience, courage, and democratic struggle in Africa,” Jonathan said. He praised Odinga’s selfless leadership, emphasizing that the late Kenyan leader understood leadership as a call to service rather than personal gain.
“He believed and looked forward to Africa’s greatness and ascendancy,” Jonathan added.
Jonathan, who shared a bond with Odinga as a fellow advocate for democracy, hailed him as a committed pan-Africanist whose legacy would endure. “I honour him not just as a brother in the cause of democracy, but as a committed pan-Africanist whose light will continue to shine,” he said.
The former Nigerian president concluded his tribute with a call for Odinga’s contributions to be remembered fondly, expressing hope that Africa would continue to draw inspiration from his wisdom, hope, and sacrifice. “May history remember him kindly, and may Africa continue to be blessed by his hope, wisdom, and sacrifice,” Jonathan stated.
Odinga’s passing marks the end of an era for Kenya and the continent, where he was a vocal advocate for democratic reforms and regional unity. His legacy as a champion of justice and pan-Africanism is expected to inspire future generations across Africa.
The full statement reads:
“ADIEU H.E. RAILA ODINGA
I am saddened by the news of the passing of H.E. Raila Odinga, former Prime Minister of Kenya and a distinguished African statesman whose life symbolised resilience, courage, and democratic struggle in Africa.
Kenya has lost a patriot and our continent has lost a great leader, one that understood that leadership is not about self, but about service; who believed and looked forward to Africa’s greatness and ascendancy.
I honour him not just as a brother in the cause of democracy, but as a committed pan-Africanist whose light will continue to shine.
May history remember him kindly, and may Africa continue to be blessed by his hope, wisdom and sacrifice.
-GEJ”
