Abuja – President Goodluck Jonathan on Thursday said that he was deeply saddened by the death of his Special Adviser on Research, Documentation and Strategy, Mr Oronto Douglas.
Douglas died early in the day at 49.
This is contained in a news release issued by the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the President, Dr Reuben Abati, in Abuja.
The statement stated that the president also extended his heartfelt condolences to the Douglas family and the government and people of Bayelsa State on the death.
It described late Douglas as of one of Bayelsa’s most distinguished sons who served his country, state and the Niger Delta region, passionately and diligently, during his very impactful years on earth.
Douglas, who died after a protracted battle with cancer, was Jonathan’s personal aide for close to a decade.
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The statement stated that the president would always remember him for his passion for work, excellence, inspiring creativity and outstanding commitment to his duties.
“The president remains thankful to God Almighty for the brilliance and resourcefulness that Oronto brought to bear on every assignment as a loyal and dutiful aide.’’
Late Douglas was Jonathan’s aide during his tenure as governor of Bayelsa and as Vice President, Acting President and President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Jonathan believes that Oronto will remain a shining and worthy example for every young Nigerian who seeks a life of service and achievement.
“He prays that Almighty God will grant Oronto’s soul eternal rest, and the Douglas family and everyone who knew him, the fortitude to bear the pain of his death,’’ it stated.
It stated that formal funeral arrangements would be announced by the Douglas family.
Meanwhile, former Bayelsa governor, Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, has described the deceased as an accomplished man during the short period he spent on earth.
Alamieyeseigha, who paid a condolence visit to the Douglas’ family in Abuja, said people would remember the deceased as a very articulate, sound, fearless and very bold man.
He recounted his days with late Douglas as commissioner, saying there was no assignment he gave him that he did not turn in at an appropriate time.
“He was very time conscious,’’ he added.
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The Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mr Ima NIboro, wrote in the condolence register “fare thee well dear friend. Rest in the bosom of the Lord, Amen’’.
Also, the Ijaw Youth Council President, Udengs Eradiri, wrote “our founding father, we will miss your contributions to the Ijaw nation’s development. Adieu papa.’’(NAN)
