The Peoples Democratic Party  has in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary,  Kola Ologbondiyan, described Shagari’s death as a “national tragedy“.

Ologbondiyan described late Shagari as a man of peace, an exceptionally honest Nigerian, outstanding leader, quintessential administrator and a symbol of national unity.

He said that the deceased made immeasurable sacrifices for the development, unity and stability of the country.

He added that Shagari’s excellent performance as a political party administrator stood him out.

Shagari was a member of the House of Representatives, Parliamentary Secretary to Prime Minister Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, at various times minister of Commerce and Industries; Economic Development, Pensions, Works and then Finance.

Shagari was also a governor of the World Bank and member of the International Monetary Fund committee of 20.

“The PDP is, therefore, deeply sorrowful that President Shehu Shagari took his bow at the time our nation needs his wealth of experience the most, particularly in the quest to restore good governance, national cohesion and economic prosperity that have eluded us in almost four years.

“In all, President Shehu Shagari remains a political colossus and the PDP urges the National Assembly to further immortalise him, by mandating the Federal Government to name a foremost national institution after this great patriot.

“The PDP commiserates with the Shagari family, the government and people of Sokoto state, the Council of State and the entire nation for this irreparable loss and prays the Almighty Allah to grant him eternal rest,” he said.