The Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Nurudeen Abatemi-Usman, has described the late strongman of Kwara politics, Dr. Olusola Saraki, as a political icon who contributed to the development of the country.

The senator said this in a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mr. Michael Jegede, to commiserate with the family of the philanthropist who died on Wednesday at 79.

Abatemi-Usman, whose late father was the deputy when the late Governor Cornelius Adebayo ruled the old Kwara State in 1983, said Saraki's demise is a great loss not only to the people of Kwara State, but to other Nigerians.

He noted that with his political sagacity, the Second Republic Senate Leader had built a formidable political dynasty, and his children, including Bukola Saraki, are involved in politics.

"My prayers go to members of the Saraki family as they mourn the death of their patriarch. We have lost a rare gem, a colossus, an enigma of sort and a quintessential politician who was involved in the politics of Kwara State and Nigeria for over 40 years," Abatemi-Usman said.

He added: "The late political juggernaut will be remembered for his humility, big-heartedness, humanitarian spirit and commitment to the development of the country. May his soul rest in peace."