Fani-Kayode announces death of long-time aide and demands investigation

Former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, announced the death of his long-time special assistant, Ndifreke Mark, on Sunday in Abuja.

Mark, who worked with Fani-Kayode for 34 years, was found unconscious in a hotel room after attending mass at the Assumption Catholic Church in Asokoro, Abuja.

In a statement released on Monday, Fani-Kayode shared details about the death. He said police findings showed that Mr Mark stayed at Mildy Lodge and Apartments in Garki area of ​​Abuja where he was last seen alive.

“According to the police, he rented a room at the hotel and spent some time there with an individual, after which he collapsed and died in the presence of that individual,” Fani-Kayode said.

The individual and the hotel receptionist have already been taken into police custody,

while the manager and owner were questioned, according to Fani-Kayode, who called for a “thorough criminal investigation” and an autopsy.

The former minister said Mark, a devout Catholic, left home on Sunday morning to attend mass.

He was pronounced dead on arrival at Asokoro District Hospital where his body was later placed in the mortuary.

The hotel was closed for two days as part of the investigation, and the room where Mr Mark was found remains closed.

“I broke the sad news to his family, met with his wife, Patience Ndifreke-Mark, and his uncle, Mr. Clement Mathias, (who represented his family) and also conveyed to them my intention to ensure that , if in fact, there is any crime, justice is served and those behind it are brought to justice”, he explained.

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Fani-Kayode wrote about his deep personal personality to Mr. Mark, describing him as “like a son” and a trusted confidant.

“We share many dreams and aspirations and fight many battles together, shoulder to shoulder,” he said.

He said Mark, 52, had been an important member of his team for more than three decades.

“Most important of all is the fact that he was a kind, trustworthy and compassionate soul who brought joy to many and who was incapable of hurting a fly.

“I will never forget him, and although he has passed away, he lives on in our hearts,” he said.

The former minister expressed confidence in the in-depth investigation of the case by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command.

He also pledged support to Mr Mark’s widow and children. “I assured his family that they will not lack for anything during this difficult time,” he said.

Mr. Fani-Kayode added his statement by thanking those who contacted him during this period of mourning.

“May Mr. Mark’s precious soul rest in peace and may the Lord comfort his wife and two beautiful children,” he said.