In a somber announcement, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, a prominent political figure and former Minister of Aviation, shared the tragic passing of his long-time Special Assistant, Mr. Ndifreke Saviour Mark. Mark, who had loyally served Fani-Kayode for 34 years, died on Sunday, October 13th, under circumstances that have prompted a full criminal investigation by the authorities.
According to Fani-Kayode's statement, Mark, a devoted Catholic and member of the Church of Assumption, Asokoro, left home early Sunday morning to attend Mass. After the service, he checked into the Mildy Lodge and Apartments, a hotel located in Garki, Abuja. Reports from the police indicate that Mark spent some time at the hotel with another individual before suddenly collapsing in the person's presence. He was subsequently rushed to Asokoro District Hospital, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival. His body is currently at the hospital morgue.
The person present with Mark at the time of his collapse has been taken into police custody, and the hotel’s receptionist is also being detained as part of the ongoing investigation. Both the manager and owner of the hotel were invited for questioning, and the authorities sealed the hotel for two days while the specific room where Mark lodged remains cordoned off.
Fani-Kayode, visibly shaken by the loss, expressed his commitment to ensuring justice if foul play is uncovered. "Mark was like a son to me, and his passing is a huge blow to me and my entire family," he said. "I have met with his wife, Barrister Patience Ndifreke-Mark, and other family members to assure them that I will stand by them in this difficult time and ensure they do not lack."
The late Ndifreke Mark, who was 52 years old, was remembered as a kind, reliable, and compassionate individual who touched many lives. Fani-Kayode also expressed confidence in the Federal Capital Territory Police Command's ability to uncover the truth behind his trusted aide's untimely demise. He noted that while the pain of Mark's loss is profound, he takes solace in the memories shared over decades of friendship and service.
As investigations continue, the family and associates of the deceased await answers that may shed light on the circumstances surrounding his death.
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