Former Anambra State governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has mourned the passing of elder statesman and billionaire industrialist, Aminu Dantata.

Obi, in a condolence message shared via his X handle on Saturday, said the late Dantata’s life was marked by simplicity, service, and devotion to national progress.

“I wish to most sincerely send my heartfelt condolences to the esteemed Dantata family on the passing of the revered patriarch and statesman, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, at the graceful age of 94,” Obi wrote.

According to him, Dantata’s legacy stretched across “generations, industries, and communities,” noting that his contributions to Nigeria’s economy and philanthropy remain enduring.

“His humility, compassion, and simplicity, even in vast wealth, are virtues worth emulating.

“He uplifted not just Nigeria’s economy but the Nigerian people through his wisdom in commerce and his philanthropy.”

Speaking further, Obi prayed for divine comfort for the Dantata family and urged Nigerians to draw lessons from the late philanthropist’s example.

“May his legacy of selflessness, enterprise, and humility continue to inspire Nigeria for generations to come,” he added.

Born on May 19, 1931, Dantata was a son of legendary merchant Alhaji Alhassan Dantata, widely regarded as one of West Africa’s wealthiest men in the early 20th century. He was also an uncle to Aliko Dangote.

A prominent businessman, Islamic scholar, and philanthropist, Dantata played major roles in Nigeria’s commercial and social development, contributing generously to education, religion, and humanitarian initiatives across the North and beyond.

He died at the age of 94.