In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, the President said he received with sadness, the news of Offodile's death.
The statement read, "On behalf of himself and the Federal Government, President Jonathan extends sincere commiserations to Chief Offodile's family, the Obi and people of Onitsha as well as friends and professional colleagues of the former Minister who also served his native community as the Onowu Iyasele of Onitsha.
"The President joins them in giving thanks to God Almighty for Chief Offodile's long and fulfilled life in the course of which he distinguished himself in the legal profession and service to his community and fatherland.
"The nation, President Jonathan believes, will remain eternally grateful for the late Chief Offodile's commendable service as a member of the Federal Executive Council, and his significant contributions to the development of the legal profession in Nigeria.
"The President prays that God Almighty will grant Chief Offodile peaceful rest from his lengthy labours on earth."
In commiserating with the family of Prof. Ajayi, Jonathan urged the deceased's many students, friends, associates in academics and colleagues in the field of Nigerian and African history to take solace in the knowledge that in passing on, he leaves behind a body of significant works that will stand to his eternal credit and assure him of a lasting place of honour among Africa's greatest historians.
The President reaffirmed the nation's gratitude for Ajayi's notable contributions over many years to the development of education and educational institutions in Nigeria as a lecturer, Professor, Dean, Deputy Vice Chancellor and Vice Chancellor at Federal universities.
The statement added, "The President assures Prof. Ajayi's family, relatives, friends and colleagues of the Federal Government's full solidarity and sympathy as they mourn the very eminent historian and 1993 winner of the Distinguished Africanist Award.
"He also prays that God Almighty will receive Prof. Ajayi's gentle soul and grant him eternal rest."
Jonathan mourns Offodile, Ade Ajayi
President Goodluck Jonathan on Monday mourned a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Chike Offodile (SAN), and a former Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Ade Ajayi.
