NAN had reported that the traditional ruler of Ndikelionwu community in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State, and author of ‘The Bottled Leopard’ died at the age of 89.
The Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Mr C Don Adinuba confirmed this in a short message.
Several sources also confirmed that the monarch, author and teacher passed away on Thursday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi.
Reacting in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, on Saturday, the President condoled with family, friends and associates of the traditional ruler.
Buhari said that Ike’s loyalty to the nation would continue to resonate in the way he mobilised his community for civic duties and sensitized youths on the value of good education.
According to him, the administrator, cerebral scholar and prolific writer will always be remembered for his exceptional creativity in communicating wisdom in simple ways through books like ‘Toads for Supper,’ ‘The Potter’s Wheel,’ “Sunset at Dawn,’ The Bottled Leopard’ and other publications.
He further noted that these were being used by many institutions as teaching tools, within and outside the country.
Buhari affirmed that the late traditional ruler understood the depth and richness of African cultures and the power of the narratives, exploring every opportunity to showcase Nigeria, and Africa, to the world.
He prayed that the almighty God would grant the soul of the departed eternal rest, and comfort his family.
NAN