Senator Saraki in a statement signed by his Special Adviser (Media and Publicity), Yusuph Olaniyonu, who expressed deep sadness on receiving the news of Audu's death condoled with the immediate family of the deceased, the government and people of Kogi State and the national and state executives as well as members of the APC over the irreparable loss.

He recalled the tenacity of purpose and unwavering loyalty of the deceased who he said remained committed to the course of his people and his party to the very last moment of his life.

Saraki said: "He was selfless, steadfast and patriotic in his services to the people of Kogi State and beyond. He was a visionary and patriotic party faithful. All his life time, he lived for the people. His death is extremely painful but we cannot question the will of the Almighty Allah in the present sorrowful circumstances.

"Audu, was a leader in all ramifications. He died when his services to the good people of Kogi State and Nigeria in general were most needed. We cannot but recall how committed and firm he was to his policies and pro-people ideology. His death is simply unbearable.

"As Muslims, we have taken his death in good faith because we strongly believe that only God gives life and can as well take it when He wishes," he stated.

Saraki urged the people of the State to be calm and peaceful, saying even at death, "all Audu wants for Kogi State is progress, peaceful coexistence and development, " while he prayed to Allah to grant Aljanah Firdaus to the soul of the deceased, and the family the fortitude to bear the loss.