President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, governors, party stalwarts, and prominent leaders across the country have expressed deep condolences to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, following the death of his beloved mother, Mama Lydia Yilwatda, who passed away on Sunday morning at the University of Jos Teaching Hospital (UJTH) at the age of 83.
In a statement released in Abuja through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Mama Lydia as “a virtuous woman whose life epitomised faith, compassion, and service.” He emphasised that she lived a purposeful life anchored on community upliftment and devotion to God.
The President urged Prof. Yilwatda to accept his mother’s passing as an act of divine will, taking solace in her impactful life. He prayed for her soul’s peaceful repose and asked God to grant the Yilwatda family, friends, and well-wishers the strength to endure the painful loss.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the ruling All Progressives Congress said the party received the news of Mama Lydia’s passing “with shock and sadness.”
The APC hailed her as a devout Christian, a respected leader, and a strong pillar of her church, the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN).
The statement highlighted her legacy of humility, compassion, and generosity, noting that her contributions extended far beyond her family to her community and the party itself.
“Mama’s death is a colossal loss, not only to her immediate family and community but to the APC family nationwide,” the party said, while extending prayers and sympathy to the bereaved family and the people of Plateau State.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, mourned Mama Lydia’s passing, describing her as “a beloved mother whose nurturing spirit and boundless love left indelible imprints on the lives of many.”
He stressed that the values she instilled in her children—integrity, diligence, and service—are clearly reflected in the leadership qualities of Prof. Yilwatda.
“As we mourn her passing, we must also celebrate her impactful life and the love she shared. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” the governor said.
The immediate past APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, also joined in mourning Mama Lydia.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje described her as a devout Christian and a woman of strong moral values who dedicated her life to God, family, and community service.
He noted that her legacy is evident in the character and leadership of her son, Prof. Yilwatda, who now leads the ruling party.
Extending condolences on behalf of his family, associates, and supporters, Ganduje remarked: “Mama Lydia will be remembered for her uprightness, humility, and role in nurturing generations of responsible citizens. Though her death is a great loss, we are consoled that she lived a fulfilled and impactful life.”