In a statement released by his Media Office in Abuja, the former Vice President described Shagaya as one of the remarkable and distinguished Nigerians of his generation adding that he would be sorely missed.
Describing the him as a wise and adaptable personality, Atiku Abubakar recalled the ease with which the late John Shagaya transformed from a military officer to a civilian and a democrat winning the confidence of his people to become an elected Senator.
He said Shagaya was a gentle and peaceful man stressing that his invaluable counsel would have been very useful at this time of crisis in many parts of the country.
Stating that the former Army general and Senator would be sorely missed by the entire country and specifically the people of Langtang and Plateau State, the former vice president called on the family to courageously accept the reality of his death.