President Bola Tinubu has conveyed his heartfelt condolences for the passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson, the esteemed civil rights advocate and Baptist minister. Tinubu commended Jackson as a servant-leader, activist, and a compelling voice for justice on a global scale.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the President joined people around the world in mourning the loss of the American civil rights figure, who died at the age of 84.
"I stand in unity with the global community and the citizens of the United States to mourn the loss of civil rights icon and distinguished Baptist preacher, Reverend Jesse Jackson, who left us this morning at the age of 84," said Tinubu.
He highlighted Jackson’s significant role in capturing global attention as a young activist alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., asserting the dignity of Black individuals and the marginalized in the U.S. and beyond.
Despite predominantly being recognized as a preacher and political organizer, Tinubu noted that Jackson transcended his roles to become a national and worldwide figure fiercely advocating for improved social and economic conditions for African Americans.
The President emphasized that Jackson continued the unfinished work of Martin Luther King Jr. in the pursuit of racial justice within the United States.
Reflecting on his experiences during his studies in Chicago in the 1970s, Tinubu recalled witnessing Jackson’s powerful activism against injustice and discrimination.
"As a devoted servant of both God and humanity, he indicated the direction of American society towards the profound promise of the American dream," added the President.
Furthermore, Tinubu credited Jackson’s political efforts with paving the way for the election of former President Barack Obama, pointing out that Jackson’s presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988 played a vital role in dismantling age-old racial barriers in American politics.
The President referred to Jackson as a cherished friend of both Nigeria and Africa, emphasizing his firm opposition to apartheid in South Africa and his influential role in advocating for the liberation of Nelson Mandela and other leaders of the African National Congress.
Tinubu further recalled Jackson's commitment to democratic governance in Nigeria during the military rule and his designation as a Special Envoy to Nigeria and Africa by former U.S. President Bill Clinton in 1997 and 1999.
"In Nigeria and across Africa, Reverend Jackson was a champion for civil liberties, advancing the cause of democracy and good governance," Tinubu stated, mentioning Jackson's efforts in fostering connections between African leadership and the U.S. Congressional Black Caucus.
The President concluded by stating that Reverend Jackson's life was remarkable for its dedication to justice and human development, urging people to uphold the values he promoted.
"Even as age and health issues affected him, his voice remained influential, encouraging us to persist in our pursuit of righteousness and maintain faith in humanity. He inspired us to 'keep hope alive,'" Tinubu expressed.
He offered prayers for the peaceful repose of the late civil rights leader.
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