Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) is saddened to learn of the death of Chief Solomon Daushep Lar, chairman of CSW Nigeria's board of trustees, in hospital in the United States yesterday following a protracted period of ill health.
 
Chief Lar was the first civilian governor of Plateau State and founding chairperson of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).  As leader of the G-34, the group of 34 eminent Nigerians who opposed the dictatorship of the late General Sani Abacha and eventually evolved into the PDP, he played a key role in Nigeria's transition to democracy.
 
Tributes have poured in following confirmation of his death.
 
In a statement President Goodluck Jonathan described Chief Lar as "a truly great leader whose eventful and highly successful political career predated Nigeria's independence", adding that he would "always be remembered for the exemplary humility, great vision, wisdom and maturity which he brought to political leadership in Nigeria for over 50 years as a legislator, executive governor, party leader and highly revered elder statesman."
 
Current Plateau State Governor Jonah Jang described Chief Lar as a pillar of democracy, a steadfast politician and a man of the people who was leaving a legacy that would stand the test of time. Senate President David Mark said Chief Lar "was a different kind of leader. He put the people and the nation first before self."
 
Speaker of the House of Representatives Aminu Waziri Tambuwal said Chief Lar would always be remembered as a man of integrity whose forthrightness and wisdom stood him out among his peers, while former President Olusegun Obasanjo described him as "a noble statesman, a lover of peace, a firm believer in the Nigerian project."
 
Engineer Samuel Salifu, a CSW-Nigeria trustee and winner of the 2012 Stefanus Prize for religious freedom said, "Baba Lar, as he was fondly referred to, was a great encouragement in the struggle for the rights of the persecuted.  His fatherly role in the country and his fearless and forthright approach to national issues will be greatly missed.  We send our heartfelt condolences to his immediate family and friends."
 
Reverend Yunusa Nmadu, CEO of CSW Nigeria, said, "CSW-Nigeria mourns the departure of Chief Solomon Lar, an iconic figure who we were privileged to have as chairman of our board of trustees. He will be greatly missed, and will always be remembered for his role in giving a voice for the voiceless."
 
CSW's Special Ambassador Stuart Windsor said, UK said, "We are deeply saddened to hear of the demise of Chief Lar, whom I was privileged to meet. He was the consummate statesman, a visionary patriot with a profound faith in God and his nation. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends, the people of his home area in Plateau State, and all who knew and loved him."