President Goodluck Jonathan on Thursday said he was deeply saddened to receive news of the death of his Special Adviser on Research, Documentation and Strategy, Mr. Oronto Douglas.
Douglas died in the early hours of today at the State House Clinic, Abuja after a protracted battle with cancer.
President Jonathan in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, described the deceased as a worthy and shining example for Nigerian youths.
Mr. Jonathan said the late Douglas would be specifically remembered for his passion for work and outstanding commitment to duties.
The president extended his condolences to the Douglas family and the government and people of Bayelsa State on the death of his aide, who he described as one of their most distinguished sons, who served his country, state and the Niger Delta region, passionately and diligently, during his very impactful years on earth.
He recalled that the deceased was his personal aide for close to a decade.
The statement read, “The President will always remember him for his passion for work, excellence, inspiring creativity and outstanding commitment to his duties.
“The President remains thankful to God Almighty for the brilliance and resourcefulness that Oronto brought to bear on every assignment as a loyal and dutiful aide during his tenure as Governor of Bayelsa State and as Vice President, Acting President and President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“President Jonathan believes that Oronto will remain a shining and worthy example for every young Nigerian who seeks a life of service and achievement.
“He prays that Almighty God will grant Oronto’s soul eternal rest, and the Douglas family and everyone who knew him, the fortitude to bear the pain of his death.
“Formal funeral arrangements will be announced by the Douglas family”.
The late Douglas would have clocked 49 on August 6. He is survived by a wife and two sons.
