The President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.) has mourned the late Victor Uwaifo, stating that the legendary highlife musician brought glory to Nigeria.
The President made this known in a statement by Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina on Saturday.
Uwaifo died at the age of 80 in Benin as one of his children, Peter de Rock, broke the news of the demise of the Professor of Visual Arts at the University of Benin on his social media page on Saturday evening.
Condoling with the family and friends of the legendary musician, the statement read, “President Muhammadu Buhari condoles with family, friends and associates of legendary musician and multi-talented artiste, Sir Victor Uwaifo, who passed on Saturday, leaving a legacy of successes in many areas of life, including academia and administration.
“The President joins the Nigerian music industry and performing artistes, home and abroad, in mourning the former first Honourable Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Tourism (Edo State), who was also the first musician and instrumentalist to be given National Honours Merit, Member of the Order of the Niger in 1983.
“President Buhari believes the renowned musician, with global appeal and recognitions, lived for many firsts, which include invitation to the State House by four presidents and Heads of State, and winner of a gold disc in Africa for his song, “Joromi’’, released in 1965 at the age of 24.
“The President notes the glory that Sir Uwaifo brought to Nigeria through his international tours, and the active role he played in national development, returning to school to get a first degree at age 54 with first class honours, masters degree at 56, and a doctorate at 77.
“President Buhari prays for the soul of the departed musician, writer, sculptor, musical instrument inventor and university lecturer, knowing the entire country, particularly the music industry, will sorely miss him.”
