Former President Muhammadu Buhari took the initiative to gather ten members of his former cabinet to express condolences to Mrs. Paulin Tallen, the former minister of women affairs and social development. This gesture came in light of the tragic passing of her son, Richard Adamu Tallen.
In a heartfelt message delivered by Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the former minister of information and national orientation, Buhari referred to Richard as “a gem and a rising star.” He emphasized the sorrow felt over the young man’s untimely death, highlighting the profound loss it represents.
Buhari encouraged Mrs. Tallen and her family to find comfort in the overwhelming support and affection shown by those who admired Richard. This outpouring of love serves as a reminder of the impact he had on others during his life.
The delegation that visited Mrs. Tallen was led by Lai Mohammed and included several notable former ministers. Among them were Engineer Abubakar Aliyu, the former minister of Power, and Barrister Mohammed Abdullahi, who previously served as the minister of Environment.
Other members of the delegation included Jedy Agba, the former minister of Power (State), and Umana Umana, who was the minister of Niger Delta. Niyi Adebayo, the former minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, also joined the group in offering their condolences.
Additionally, the delegation featured the former ministers of Youth and Sports, Sunday Dare, and Geoffrey Onyeama, who previously held the position of minister of Foreign Affairs. Muazu Jaji, the former minister of Transportation, and Engineer Suleiman Adamu, the former minister of Water Resources, rounded out the group.
During their visit, prayers were offered for the repose of Richard’s soul, reflecting the deep sense of loss felt by all who knew him. The former president’s delegation aimed to provide emotional support to the grieving family during this difficult time.
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Reports from Daily Trust indicated that Richard, Mrs. Tallen’s only son, passed away on Saturday after being hospitalized at Cedar Crest Hospital in Abuja. While the cause of his death was not immediately disclosed, it was noted that he had been placed on oxygen in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) the previous night.
The family confirmed the news of Richard’s passing, stating that he had succumbed after a brief illness. His alma mater, the Vom Old Boys’ Association (VOBA), also expressed their condolences, announcing his sudden death on social media.
VOBA shared a message on Facebook, mourning the loss of their member, Richard Adamu Tallen. They noted that he left behind a loving family, including his wife and children, and provided details about the burial arrangements that would follow.