Tinubu wants late US envoy Carrington immortalised

National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has called for immortalisation of former U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Walter Carrington, in recognition of his outstanding achievements, The Nations reports.

Tinubu made the call through his media aide, Tunde Rahman as the political fraternity continues to mourn the astute politician.

In his tribute, Tinubu said that the late ambassador was a bridge between Africa and the African-American.

“To forget him would be a shameless act like forgetting one’s older brother. Let us honour him. His name shall take its rightful and good place in the annals of this nation.

“The principled manner in which he lived should be taught to our children, The Nations is quoted.

“Let us continue his legacy by expanding and strengthening that bridge, for the benefit of our race,” he said.

The APC national leader commended the late ambassador for his struggle for democracy in Nigeria and for lending himself to the fight against repressive government in Nigeria.

He said the laudable ideals for which the departed Carrington stood must be honoured.

According to him, late Carrington may have been the citizen of one country, but he was surely the brave and passionate son of two nations.

“He openly and unconditionally championed the advent of democratic freedom and constitutional governance in the country.

“He was an outstanding example of courage amidst humility and intellect, teamed with compassion,” he said.

According The Nations, Tinubu described Carrington as a proud and noble black man who stood up for his convictions.

“He lived with us during a troubled and uncertain time.

“We were in the clutches of an epic battle between democracy and dictatorship, between freedom and oppression, and between enlightened progress and authoritarian reaction.

“He could have maintained a diplomatic distance and acted cozily with the Abacha regime.

“His life would have been less difficult and safer. But he eschewed personal comfort for the higher prize of a greater mission.

“Ambassador Carrington has gone to be with God, but before he left, he taught us by example, what it means to be pan-Africanist.

“Now we must follow. Well-done Ambassador Carrington. Extremely well-done,” he said.

Tinubu extended his condolences to Carrington’s wife, Arese, adding that she was such a wonderful partner to the diplomat.

Carrington was also the U.S Ambassador to Senegal.