By Habeeb Ibrahim
Former Minister of Aviation and Special Assistant to President Olusegun Obasanjo, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, has announced the tragic death of his loyal aide, Mr. Ndifreke Saviour Mark, who had worked with him for 34 years. Mark, a devoted Catholic, passed away under circumstances that have prompted a full-scale police investigation.
According to a statement released by Fani-Kayode, Mark had left home early on Sunday, October 13, to attend morning Mass at the Catholic Church of Assumption, Asokoro, Abuja.
After the service, he reportedly checked into Mildy Lodge and Apartments in Garki, where he later died in the presence of an unidentified individual. Mark was pronounced dead upon arrival at Asokoro District Hospital, and his body has since been placed in the hospital morgue.
Fani-Kayode has expressed deep grief over the loss, describing Mark as “like a son” to him, highlighting the close bond they shared. “His passing is a huge blow to me and my entire family,” he said, adding that Mark had been a trusted aide and companion in many personal and professional battles.
The former minister also revealed that the individual who was with Mark at the time of his death is currently in police custody, and the hotel’s receptionist has been detained as part of the investigation. The manager and owner of the hotel have been questioned by the authorities, while the room Mark occupied remains sealed.
“I have insisted on a full criminal investigation of the matter and an autopsy,” Fani-Kayode stated, underscoring his commitment to uncovering any potential foul play in Mark’s death.
He has also assured Mark’s family, including his wife, Barrister Patience Ndifreke-Mark, and his two young children, of his continued support during this challenging time.
Fani-Kayode expressed confidence in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command to conduct a thorough investigation. He emphasized the need for justice if foul play is uncovered and assured that Mark’s legacy would be honored.
“Most important of all is the fact that he was a kind, reliable, and compassionate soul who brought joy to many,” Fani-Kayode said, paying tribute to his late aide.
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced pending the conclusion of the investigation and autopsy.
