The governor of Edo state, Godwin Obaseki, has expressed sadness Over the death of nigeria’s first female Senator, Franca Afegbua.
Mrs Afegbua passed away in Benin-City, Edo State capital, yesterday morning, according to a statement issued by her family, yesterday evening.
In a statement on Monday, Governor Obaseki described Afegbua as a “pace-setter, trail-blazer and visioner”, who remains an inspiration for women in Nigeria and across Africa.
He said, “I am saddened by the news of the passing of Nigeria’s first democratically elected female senator, who represented Bendel North Senatorial District of Old Bendel State.
“She was an entrepreneur, who championed the cause of female representation in government and gender mainstreaming at a time when it was a herculean task. She was a trailblazer, who deserves to be celebrated for her bravery and exemplary exploits.”
According to him, the death of Afegbua was a huge loss because she was an inspiration to young girls, who are in need of mentors, noting that her achievement was rare, at the time when Nigeria’s political scene was male dominated and the military intervention in the governance, was still paramount.
The 79 year old, late senator, was the first female senator, to be elected into the house of Senate in Nigeria, and she represented old Bendel-North, at the national assembly in the second republic, on the platform of the National Party of Nigeria in 1983.
