Body Of Former Foreign Affairs Minister, Ashiru, Arrives Nigeria

The body of the former Foreign Affairs minister, Ambassador Olugbenga Ashiru, arrived the international wing of the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMIA), Lagos, yesterday aboard South Africa Airways flight SA 060 accompanied by his wife, children and brother.

The body, received by the family led by Prof. Toyin Ashiru, was later ferried out of the aircraft into a waiting hearse.

Brother of the deceased, Ogun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, who accompanied the remains home from South Africa, told journalists that his brother was a perfect gentleman who contributed so much to the growth of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

"He was a perfect gentleman. Many retired ambassadors, many of them in their 80s are there waiting for him at the VIP Lounge. He did very well in the ministry. I have lost a friend, a confidant and a brother, but we cannot query God," he said.

Other members of the family were also present at the Gate 14 exit of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos.

After the aircraft touched down, family members interfaced with relevant authorities including Nigerian Customs Service, South African Airways and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria for documentation.

The late Ashiru who died last week, was actively involved in the diplomatic face-off between Nigeria and South Africa in 2012 over the deportation of 125 Nigerians for not possessing valid yellow fever vaccination certificates.

As the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ashiru reacted by deporting many South Africans who arrived Nigeria and after series of deportations, South African government apologised.

Ironically, the late Ashiru died in South Africa where he travelled to seek medical attention and where he worked for many years as Nigeria's ambassador.

He was 66 years old when he died.

Former managing director of Daily Times and CEO of Tanus Communication Company, Dr Yemi Ogunbiyi , Engineer Olatunbosun Ashiru, Mr Alaba Okupe , Venerable Oludare Otoki , Venerable Leke Dina, Sir Kehinde Smith, Ambassador Oluwatoyin Lawal, former deputy high commissioner in London and Mr Niyi Alonge as well as son of the deceased were on hand to receive the body of the ex - foreign affairs minister.