Jonathan ‘deeply saddened’ by Douglas’ death

President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed his “deep” sadness over the death of his special adviser on research, documentation and strategy, Oronto Douglas.

Douglas died in the early hours of Thursday after battling cancer for eight years.

In a statement by Reuben Abati, presidential spokesman, he said the president “extends his heartfelt condolences to the Douglas family and the government and people of Bayelsa State on the death of one of their most distinguished sons who served his country, state and the Niger Delta region, passionately and diligently, during his very impactful years on earth”.

Jonathan said Douglas, who was his personal aide for close to a decade, “will always remember him for his passion for work, excellence, inspiring creativity and outstanding commitment to his duties”.

Abati said: “The President remains thankful to God Almighty for the brilliance and resourcefulness that Oronto brought to bear on every assignment as a loyal and dutiful aide during his tenure as Governor of Bayelsa State and as Vice President, Acting President and President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“President Jonathan believes that Oronto will remain a shining and worthy example for every young Nigerian who seeks a life of service and achievement.

“He prays that  Almighty God will grant Oronto’s soul eternal rest, and the Douglas family and everyone who knew him, the fortitude to bear the pain of his death.”