Former Petroleum Minister, Tam David-West is dead.
He was said to have died a few hours ago, aged 83.
Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed “deep sorrow” over his death describing him as a “friend and ally.”
In the condolence message signed by his media aide, Femi Adesina, the President said: “Professor Tamunoemi Sokari David-West, 83, was a consultant virologist of national and international standing. He served as Commissioner of Education in the old Rivers State, Minister of Petroleum and Energy under the Muhammadu Buhari military regime, and Minister of Mines, Power and Steel under Gen. Ibrahim Babangida regime.
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“He had an indomitable spirit, stood resolutely by whatever he believed in, and was in a class of his own.”
Buhar further described the late Tam David-West as a forthright man.
The President commiserated with the David-West family, the people of Buguma, Kalabari Kingdom of Rivers State, the academia, and all those who loved him.
“President Buhari prays that God will rest the soul of the committed nationalist, urging all those who believe in the ideals he espoused to approximate same, for the betterment of Nigeria, and humanity in general”, the statement added.