The late Franca Afegbua, a former senator from Old Bendel State’s Bendel North Senatorial District, has been mourned by Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.
Afegbua, the first democratically elected female senator in Nigeria, died at the age of 79.
The governor hailed Afegbua as a “pace-setter, trail-blazer, and visioner” who continues to serve as an inspiration for women in Nigeria and all of Africa in a statement on Monday.
He said, “I am saddened by the news of the passing of Nigeria’s first democratically elected female senator, who represented Bendel North Senatorial District of Old Bendel State.
“She was an entrepreneur who championed the cause of female representation in government and gender mainstreaming at a time when it was a herculean task. She was a trailblazer who deserves to be celebrated for her bravery and exemplary exploits.”
The governor described Afegbua’s passing as a great loss since she served as a role model for young females who lack mentors.
