by Rachel Ogbu

Top Nigerian politicians have expressed shock over the death of former Chief of General Staff and Vice President of Nigeria during the General Abdusalam Abubakar regime, Vice Admiral Mike Okhai Akhigbe.

Akhigbe, aged 68 was reported dead on Monday October 28 in a New York hospital wear h was receiving treatment for throat cancer.

Leading the tribute list was Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi  who through a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Olayinka Oyebode, said Nigerians will not forget Akhigbe’s contribution to the return and stability of democracy in Nigeria.

Senate David Mark said the death was like “the loss of a brother, confidant, friend and comrade-at-arms.”

 Channels TV also reported that the Delta State Governor, Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan also described the late Admiral Akhigbe as a courageous leader who always spoke truth even in the face of daunting challenges and great risk to his life.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Honourable Emeka Ihedioha was quoted as saying  will yearn for his wealth of knowledge, experience and statesmanship contributions to national development.

Not to forget Ondo State Governor, Olusegun Mimiko who said “with his wealth of experience, it was too early for him to leave at 68”.

Akhigbe who was from Fugar, Edo State was also the Military Governor of Ondo and Lagos States.