By Emeka Aginam
The Federal Republic of Germany and the government of United Kingdom have sympathized with the government and people of Nigeria over the demise of President Umar Musa Yaradua after a protracted illness.

German Federal President, H.E. Horst Köhler, in a condolence message  to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, H.E. Dr. Goodluck Jonathan said that, “Mr President, my fellow citizens and I mourn together with the Nigerian people the deceased President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. We extend our most sincere sympathy to his wife and to his family.

“In personal meetings I have had the chance to come to know and to esteem President UmaruMusa Yar’Adua as a states-man and as an individual. President Yar’Adua was convinced that his country and his nation could only develop further by means of adherance to the rule of law and to good governance.

“ These principles characterised his work as Head of State of Nigeria. In return the people of Nigeria have shown him particular confidence. President Yar’Adua always sought ways to fulfil his responsibility for peace and security in his country and on the African continent. “This commitment became apparent particularly during the 4th Africa Forum held in Abuja in November 2008, which we both co-chaired.

“ Germany loses a partner who has always shown a distinct interest in our country and in the development of our relations. Mr President, I wish you strength and prudence to lead the country in this time of deep mourning”

Similarly, Gordon Brown, MP Prime Minister, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland in his condolence message to Nigeria on the death of Yar Adua expressed his sympathy saying that,  “On behalf of the people of the UK, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy to the Yar’Adua family and the people of Nigeria on the death of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.

“He served his country with great dedication, decency and integrity. I was impressed by his willingness to tackle poverty, promote democracy, resolve conflict and defend the rule of law.  He leaves a legacy of a peace initiative in the Niger Delta, and vital progress on economic reform”