The Governor of Cross River State, Prof. Ben Ayade has condoled the Government and People of the United Kingdom over the demise of Queen Elizabeth II who died at the age of 96.
Ayade who paid a condolence visit to the British High Commissioner to Nigeria Monday, in Abuja said the late queen was the “custodian of the heritage of culture, tradition and humanity”, adding that “her exit was an eclipse upon a full dynasty’.”
He said the world, particular the Commonwealth member states would greatly miss her leadership role, reiterating that the late queen was a symbol of unity, whose influence had helped to propel and stabilize governments around the world.
Ayade said her 70 years reign, overseeing 15 Prime Ministers was a watershed in the history of the United Kingdom.
“Queen Elizabeth was in a class of her own; elegant, astute and very decent. She was a spring of knowledge and wisdom; powerful and highly respected across the world. Her reign was seamless and devoid of controversies usually associated with monarchies around the world.
“As we mourn her exit, we should also celebrate her exemplary life. Let us celebrate a legacy of excellence in service, leadership and mentorship. She will continue to remain a huge inspiration to millions of people across the world”, the governor opined.
“Surely, Nigeria will miss her, the Common Wealth of Nations will miss her, the world indeed will miss Queen Elizabeth II”, he added.
Speaking, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing thanked governor Ayade for commiserating with the government and people of the United Kingdom while pledging the country’s continuous support to Nigeria.
She said UK/Nigeria relations would remain unshaken as King Charles III would favorably fit into the late queen’s shoes having been mentored for the job for over 6 decades.