From Sylvanus Viashima, Jalingo
Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas on Monday commiserated with the Catholic community in the state and the country over the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88.
In a statement issued in Jalingo and signed by Hon. Emmanuel Bello, the SA Media and Digital Communication to the Governor, Kefas said the late Pope was, in every way, a true servant of Christ and a man of the people.
He noted that his strong voice against injustice and oppression will be greatly missed at the time that it is needed the most.
“I received the news of the demise of the leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, this morning with a very heavy heart. Pope Francis was a great man of the people, a champion for peace who promoted interreligious engagement.
“His death, sadly, comes at a time his strong voice against injustice and suppression is needed the most. He was a voice for peace, tolerance, and reconciliation.
“I sincerely commiserate with the Catholic community in our dear state, country, and indeed, the world over this irreparable loss. May God rest his soul,” the statement reads in parts.
The Vatican announced the death of the Holy Father this morning at the age of 88.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires on 17th December 1936, Pope Francis was elected Pope on March 13, 2013, after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI.