The Former President of the Republic of Ghana, John Agyekum Kufuor has sympathized with the people of Nigeria and paid a glowing tribute to the late Nigerian President Omaru Yar’Adua. Speaking on the Citi FM Thursday, May 6, John Kufuor said he was utterly sad upon hearing the tragic news of the death of one of his bosom friends. He described the former ECOWAS chairman as a great leader and a man of wisdom. He also commended Mr Yar’Adua’s marvellous achievement despite his short stay in office. “The news hit me with shock, even though he hadn’t been well till his death for quite some time, it still took me with sadness…definitely Africa has lost a great leader and my heart goes out to the bereaved family, the government and entire people of Nigeria.” The Nigerian President, Umaru Yar'Adua died at his presidential villa in Abuja following a protracted illness. The government of Nigeria have since announced seven days of national mourning and said the president would be buried on Thursday. Mr Yar'Adua, 58, came to power in 2007 promising many reforms. Former President Kufuor said the late President made tremendous progress in tackling the unrest in the oil-rich Niger Delta which he promised before coming into office. He praised Mr Yar'Adua's profound personal decency and integrity and his passionate belief in the vast potential and bright future of Nigeria. Mr Yar'Adua is scheduled to be buried at a Muslim ceremony later on Thursday in his home state of Katsina, in the North of the country. Meanwhile, Nigeria's acting President Goodluck Jonathan has been sworn in as head of state following the death of President Umaru Yar'Adua. Former President Kufour wished Goodluck Jonathan well and said he is hopeful that Goodluck Jonathan will be equal to the task and continue the developmental policies initiated by his Predecessor. “I really wish him well, I think that he will be equal to the huge task bestowed on him and hope he will be guided in all aspects of interest of his nation.” Mr. Jonathan, who has been in charge since February as acting president, will appoint a deputy and serve out the rest of the current presidential term until elections are due next year. Source: Citifmonline