Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan has expressed sadness at the death of Senator Isaiah Balat, a former Minister of Works and Special Adviser to Vice President Namadi Sambo.

In a statement issued in Lagos by Felix Ofou, his Press Secretary, the Governor described the late minister as a “Quintessential leader, patriot and astute politician”, whose death would remain a tragic loss for a long time in the annals of Nigeria’s history.

Uduaghan recalls with nostalgia vast knowledge displayed by the deceased during personal interactions between the late politician and himself in the course of strategic interface with Vice President Sambo, pointing out that the experience left lasting impressions that he was dealing with a great Nigerian.

“He was an embodiment of knowledge and wisdom. His experience as a former senator and minister proved very useful in our constant interaction with the Vice President (Sambo). I feel a personal loss and I truly sympathise with many people that are affected by this incident “, he lamented.

The governor particularly expressed condolences with Vice President Sambo, the government and people of Kaduna State as well as the immediate family of late Senator Balat who are undoubtedly affected by the loss.

“The government and people of Delta State share in their pain. We are as affected as anyone who truly knew the worth of the man to the nation”, he said while praying that God give them fortitude to bear the effect of the former minister’s death.

Mr. Balat, a former senator and minister of works was serving as a senior special adviser to the president in the office of the vice president before his death.

He died in Abuja on Tuesday at about 1pm. Mr. Balat, 62, was a notable Kaduna politician.