Jonathan, Mark, Others Eulogise Lar

President Goodluck Jonathan
Top government functionaries, former governors, past leaders of the PDP and colourfully dressed groups in Abuja  Saturday paid their last respect to the former governor of Plateau State and pioneer chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Solomon Daushep Lar, who  died October 9, in the United States.

In his tribute, President Goodluck Jonathan, Saturday declared that it would be herculean task to emulate the legacy of Lar. He further said Lar has taught Nigerians the need to remain one.

The President  Jonathan who was represented by the Senate President, David Mark said that lar  can rightly be regarded as the father of the PDP. As first national chairman of the party, he laid the solid foundation upon which the PDP will build upon.

He said that  the presence of former chairmen of the party was a clear indication of his wide acceptance by the party.
Jonathan  added that the pioneer chairman of the PDP built bridges across the boundaries in the country to ensure the country developed.

Describing Lar as being generous to a fault, Jonathan said  “that his legacy would be difficult for us to emulate”.

The President noted that Lar was renowned as the emancipator because he wanted all Nigerians to be equal and not for a section of the country to dominate the others.
He said that the former governor has taught Nigerians the need to share God’s bless and the need for Nigeria to remain one.

Speaking in his capacity as Senate President, Mark, said Lar never saw geographical boundaries, stressing  “if you are an oppressed Nigerian, you fall into the group of people he fought for.”
On his part the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, described Lar as a politician per excellence, statesman and a leader.

“Nigeria has lost a pillar, a pillar to this government and a father to the nation. Every part of this country can say he is part of them.

“He was like a father to me. He was part of Nigerias history. He was compassionate and generous to ensure younger ones make it.”

In his tribute, the governor of Plateau State, represented by his Deputy, Amb. Ignatius Longjan, said  the former governor, had a unrivaled capacity to give. He further described Lar as a politician who displayed high democratic values.

“His belief in humanity is the reason we celebrate him. As a state we are proud to say he was true ambassador of our people.”