National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, has expressed profound sorrow over the passing, on Saturday, of Alhaja Sidikat Abake Basiru, the beloved mother of the party’s National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru.

“On behalf of the National Working Committee (NWC), party leaders, members and supporters across the country, Professor Yilwatda extends his heartfelt condolences to Senator Basiru, the entire Basiru family, and the people of Osun State on the loss of a matriarch whose life was defined by faith, dignity, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to her family,” the APC National Chairman, said in a message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Tooki.

He noted that “while the passing of a loved one is always painful, there is great comfort in the fact that Mama lived a fulfilled life, raised exemplary children, and left behind enduring values that continue to inspire all who came in contact with her.”

“Professor Yilwatda particularly commends Senator Basiru for the exceptional love, care and devotion he consistently demonstrated towards his mother throughout her lifetime. Even during the period of her illness, the National Secretary remained steadfast, ensuring she received the best possible attention while balancing the enormous responsibilities of his office and his commitment to the Party. His exemplary sense of duty to his mother reflects the values of compassion, gratitude and family responsibility that Nigerians hold dear,” Tooki said in a statement.

He added: “The APC National Chairman prays that Almighty Allah, in His infinite mercy, forgives Mama's shortcomings, grants her eternal rest in Al-Jannah Firdaus, and comforts Senator Basiru, his siblings, children, and the entire family with the strength and fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss.

“Professor Yilwatda urges Senator Basiru to take solace in the remarkable legacy his mother leaves behind—a legacy reflected in the integrity, discipline, humility and service that have become hallmarks of his public life. He expresses confidence that her memory will continue to inspire the family to uphold the noble virtues she embodied.”

Yilwatda, on behalf of APC, extended “our deepest sympathies to our National Secretary and his family at this difficult moment,” adding: “We share in your grief and pray that the Almighty grants Mama eternal rest and gives the family the courage to bear this loss. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace."