The remains of Nigeria’s Ambassador to France, Ambassador Kayode Laro arrived Ilorin, Kwara State capital, on Wednesday morning for immediate burial.
The body of the diplomat was flown in with an aircraft of the Nigerian Air Force, draped in the national colours as a mark of honour for his service to Nigeria.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq received the remains of the diplomat at the General Tunde Idiagbon International Airport, Ilorin, supported by other dignitaries and family members of the deceased.
The governor also attended the burial, which took place at the late envoy’s family compound in Ilorin. The burial rites were led by the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Mohammed Bashir Soliu.
Other dignitaries in attendance included Nigeria’s Ambassador to France, superintending Economic and Consular Affairs, Ambassador Muazam Nayaya; Deputy Head of Mission (France), Ambassador Tunde Mukaila Mustapha; and AbdulRazaq’s family led by the governor’s elder brother, Dr. Alimi AbdulRazaq, who is the Mutawalle Ilorin.
Earlier in his condolence message, the governor described Laro’s death as shocking and devastating, and prayed to Allah to forgive him and grant him al-jannah Firdaus.
Ambassador Mustapha, who spoke to newsmen shortly after the burial rites, said the late Laro was a complete gentleman and a diplomat par excellence.
He prayed to Allah to grant the departed soul Aljannat Firdaus and console the family he left behind.