Nigerians Mourn As Florence Saraki, Ex-Senate President's Mother Dies

     Late Mrs Florence Saraki 

Nigerians have been thrown into mourning following the death of Chief Florence Morenike Saraki, the mother of former President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki.

Florence died on Tuesday at the age of 89.

Saraki announced his mother's death via his social media handles on Tuesday. 

The statement read: “With profound sadness and total submission to the will of Almighty God, I announce the passing of my beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and matriarch, Chief Mrs. Florence Morenike Saraki, who peacefully transitioned today, Tuesday, June 18, 2024.

“Details regarding funeral arrangements will be shared in due course. We appreciate your love, prayers, and support as we mourn Mama’s passing.”

In his condolence message, the ward Chairman of People Democratic Party (PDP) Ajikobi Central, Hon Abubakar Yusuf Garba described the late Florence as a pillar of strength.

Saraki, who served as the 13th president of the Senate from 2015 to 2019, represented Kwara Central Senatorial District at the National Assembly.

While mourning the late matriarch, Garba added: "We share in the grief and sorrow that comes with the loss of a matriarch, a pillar of strength, and a guiding light. Chief (Mrs.) Florence Morenike Saraki was an exemplary woman, a devoted wife, and a dedicated mother who left an indelible mark on the lives of everyone she touched.

“Her unwavering support and dedication to her family, particularly her husband, the late Dr. Olusola Saraki, and her children, are a testament to her selflessness and devotion.”

Also, a  former governorship aspirant of PDP in Ogun State, Segun Sowunmi noted that late Chief Florence impacted the lives of Kwara locals and Nigerians generally. 

Sharing his condolences through his Facebook handle on Tuesday, he added that: "Saraki Loses Mother, Chief Mrs. Florence Morenike Saraki. I receive with gratitude to God a life well spent, lived impactfully, and reason to thank her creator for grace unspeakable in the life of her beloved husband, late Oloye Olusola Saraki, who was one of the heroes for which we plead that their labours past will not be in vain.

“To her last lovely children among whom is the Waziri Ilorin, Abubakar Olusola Bukola Saraki, former governor of Kwara State and arguably the most dignified and independent Senate President in Nigeria in this republic.

“Princess of Owo, omo ologho, thank you for examples set in good conduct and good African values as a community leader, as a role model and as a virtuous woman for others to emulate.

“Now rest in the assurance that your beautiful legacies will be passed on through your children, your grandchildren, your great-grandchildren, through all who experience your kindness of spirit.

“My condolences to all your loved ones, especially our leader, Senator Bukola Saraki to whom this must be an irreparable loss.

“Time shared and all beautiful memories will lessen the pain of finality, that death represents. Fare thee well!”