President Muhammadu Buhari has condoled the Aguiyi-Ironsi family, government, and people of Abia, on the passing of Victoria Aguiyi-Ironsi.

Victoria was the wife of the first military Head of State, Maj.-Gen. Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi.

The president’s condolence message was conveyed in a statement, by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, on Monday in Abuja.

The president affirmed that Victoria’s incredible strength and exceptional courage during one of the darkest moments in our nation’s history pedestal her as a mother of the nation, God-fearing and a foremost woman of valour.

The president noted that the former First Lady would be remembered for laying a solid foundation for women’s leadership role in the seat of power and as a founding member of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association.

7-day lockdown of Australia’s Victoria state aimed at containing virus cluster

“Victoria also passionately championed the welfare and wellbeing of families of military officers.”

The president recognized that 55 years after the death of Maj.-Gen. Aguiyi-Ironsi, Victoria never stopped working for the greater good of Nigeria and for peace, stability, healing, and reconciliation in the land.

President Buhari expressed hope that Victoria’s labors for the country, would not be in vain and enjoined Nigerians to pray for the repose of the soul of the departed and comfort for those mourning her.