The President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari has sympathized with Pope Francis, Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) and Catholics over the demise of the Bishop of Sokoto, Most Reverend Kevin Joseph Aje.
Buhari’s condolence is contained in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, Daily Trust revealed.
President Buhari referred to the bishop’s steadfast advocacy of cordiality between Christians and Muslims, plus how he served as a peacemaker and bridge builder, adding that “this would resonate whenever the departed cleric comes to mind”.
He described Bishop Aje as a “great spiritual father,” who had left behind good examples for younger generation especially priests and preachers, praying for the repose of his soul.
Aje was born, 25 April 1934 in Amper District of Kanke Local Government Area, Plateau State and got his Secondary School Certificate in St. Theresa’s Minor Seminary, Oke-Are, Ibadan, before proceeding to study for the Catholic priesthood.
He was ordained on 12 June 1966 in Jos by Bishop John Reddington and after years of serving as a priest, he got elected as Coadjutor Bishop of the Diocese of Sokoto.
He was officially installed as Bishop of the Diocese of Sokoto on 28 April 1985, becoming the third bishop and first native Nigerian bishop of Sokoto.
The Bishop Emeritus retired in the state in 2011 before his demise.
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