August 29, (THEWILL) – President Muhammadu Buhari has commiserated with the family and friends of legendary musician, Sir Victor Efosa Uwaifo.
THEWILL reports the legendary guitarist, Sir Uwaifo, died on Saturday evening after a brief illness.
He was 80 years old.
In a statement signed by presidential spokesman, Femi Adesina, Buhari said the entire country will miss him.
The President joined the Nigerian music industry and performing artistes, home and abroad, in mourning the former first Honourable Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Tourism (Edo State), who was also the first musician and instrumentalist to be given the National Honours Merit, Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) in 1983.
President said he believes the renowned musician, with global appeal and recognitions, lived for many firsts, which include invitation to the State House by four presidents and Heads of State, and winner of a gold disc in Africa for his song, “Joromi’’, released in 1965 at the age of 24.
Buhari noted the glory that Sir Uwaifo brought to Nigeria through his international tours, and the active role he played in national development, returning to school to get a first degree at age 54 with first class honours, masters degree at 56, and a doctorate at 77.
The President prayed for the soul of the departed musician, writer, sculptor, musical instrument inventor and university lecturer, knowing the entire country, particularly the music industry, will sorely miss him.
Meanwhile, Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, has expressed shock at the death of the l Uwaifo, who served as a Commissioner under the administration of former Governor, Chief Lucky Igbinedion.
Obaseki in a statement, said, “I received the news of the loss of legendary musician and art teacher, Professor Victor Uwaifo, with shock and sadness.
“He was talented, phenomenal and an illustrious son of Edo State who wowed the world with his array of skills, notably his music talent”.
On its part, Edo State Chapter of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), described Professor Victor Efosa Uwaifo as a great inspiration to others in the state.
The state Chairman of the association, Eghe Nova, said, “He inspired a lot of people. He was the most educated musician that we had so we had been using him to tell other musicians that musicians are not dropouts. At least, he was able to prove that. One doesn’t have to be a failure to go into music.”
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