‘You’re not alone’ — Fani-Kayode, Pantami condole with Russian envoy over Moscow attack

Femi Fani-Kayode, a former minister of aviation; and Isa Ali Pantami, ex-minister of communications and digital economy; on Tuesday paid a condolence visit to the embassy of Russia in Abuja.

On March 22, 133 people were killed and over 100 injured at the Crocus City Hall shopping mall and concert complex, northwest of Moscow, the Russian capital, after gunmen opened fire on fun seekers.

Hours after the attack, the Islamic State (ISIS) claimed responsibility.

Fani-Kayode expressed solidarity on behalf of millions of Nigerians, adding that Nigeria has faced similar attacks.

The ex-minister urged the Russian government to identify and bring those responsible for the attack to justice.

“We acknowledged the critical role that you have played in the development of our country and we want you to be assured that in this difficult time and indeed, over the months and years, Russia is not alone and has not been alone. You have many, many friends here in Nigeria,” he said.

Pantami also conveyed the delegation’s condolences to Russian President Vladimir Putin and the people of Russia over the tragic incident.

“We stand by you, we stand by humanity, we always stand for peace, we stand for justice and we do hope that this is the last calamity that will happen in the country,” Pantami said.

“We will continue to pray for your country, for our country and also for peace, stability and prosperity all over the world.”

Alexey Shebarshin, Russian ambassador to Nigeria, said four suspects have been arrested over the incident with investigation ongoing.

Shebarshin expressed gratitude to the delegation for their visit and appealed for collaboration against terrorism.

Other members of the delegation were Basheer Lado, former federal commissioner, national commission for refugees, migrants and internally displaced persons; Mohammed Hassan, senator representing Yobe south; Farouk Adamu, former member of the house of representatives; and Joseph Onoh, spokesperson of the 2023 Bola Tinubu presidential campaign in the south-east.

See pictures of the visit below.