NIGERIA: CONDOLENCE LETTER FROM PRESIDENT OBASANJO

UNCLAS ABUJA 002286 SIPDIS NSC FOR JFICKLIN, JFRAZER DEPARTMENT FOR AF/W E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PREL OPDC NI SUBJECT: NIGERIA: CONDOLENCE LETTER FROM PRESIDENT OBASANJO TO PRESIDENT BUSH ¶1. (U) On 12 September, just after midnight, the Embassy received the following letter of condolence from President Obasanjo to President Bush. The signed original has been pouched to AF/W, a copy faxed to the Department. Begin text: 12 September 2001 Dear President, On behalf of the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and on my own behalf, I wish to extend to Your Excellency and through you to the Government and people of the United States of America, our heartfelt condolences on the sadistic terrorist attack on your people. This terrorist attack is callous, dastardly and must be condemned by all peace-loving people the world over. The perpetrators of this heinous crime that has resulted in huge loss of lives and property must not go unpunished. Terrorism and terrorists must never be given comfort. The spirit of democracy must never be downcast but must be buoyed up and made unconquerable. Our sympathy and prayers also go to the families of those who have lost their beloved ones in this attack. Please accept, Mr. President, the assurances of my highest consideration. Yours sincerely, /sgd/ Olusegun Obasanjo ¶2. (U) Although the GON had not released the text of this message as of 2100 last night, it was announced on the nightly news that President Obasanjo had sent condolences to POTUS. ¶3. (U) Embassy has received numerous condolence calls from host country officials and resident diplomats. Andrews