"Dear Papa
"My heart
aches with a profound sense of grief and loss over the tragic death of your
daughter, the beloved Funke Olakunrin.
"Funke was an
amiable and good soul who did and meant no harm to anyone. Like her father, she
exemplified the best traits of our people. It is senseless and extremely
painful that such a fine human being would be attacked by armed assailants
while she was travelling with family members along Akure-Ore road.
"Funke and I
shared a happy and close relationship. We regularly exchanged ideas and advice
to each other. We could speak to each other freely and honestly because of
mutual respect that described our relationship. These talks enriched me. I
shall miss them.
"When she
experienced an ailment last year, she informed me. I was able to help. Funke’s condition improved.
"Showing her
fine personal character and gratitude, Funke wrote the following words to me
which I wish to share with you now to illustrate the goodness of her spirit:
“Thank you so much
for your help. I appreciate your help. You helped me to get another opportunity
to live. Mo dupe. Best regards and with all respect.”
"Not long after, she sent another message: “Just to
appreciate you once more. I am here Sir. The treatment is progressing. I am
trusting GOD. Thank u for making it possible. Mo dupe Sir. May you continue to
grow in His Grace. Amen.”
"I shall
always treasure the relationship we had and will hold these messages in
remembrance for I see myself as your son who respects and admires you deeply.
It is from this wellspring of affection and emotion that I write this letter.
"Unfortunately,
some people are eagerly trying to use this tragedy to advance their political
agendas. I sincerely regret such behaviour for it is wrong and out of place. It does not well fit the moment. This is a
time for consolation and genuine condolence.
"Everyone
loves and supports you. I am sure that no effort will be spared in identifying
the assailants and bringing them to full justice. I have been assured by
government and law enforcement authorities that the perpetrators of this
terrible act will be apprehended and face the brunt of the law for what they
have committed.
"We have
faith that justice will indeed be done. But we must seek more than this. All of
us who love you must also work together to honour Funke’s life by taking
concrete steps to make sure such attacks do not continue to occur against the
innocent and the peaceful.
"I too have
lost a precious child. I have a sense of what you are going through. Words are
insufficient to express my innermost sentiments at this moment. All I can say
is that my fervent prayer is for God to extend His divine hand in order to lend
the comfort to you and the Fasoranti and Olakunrin families that only He can
provide.
"May the loving and beautiful soul of Funke now and forever more rest gently in the bosom of the Lord. May God give you the strength and solace to carry on.
"Papa, Olorun a duro ti yin. E o ni di agbaya!
Asiwaju Bola Tinubu
No comments:
Post a Comment