By Danjuma Aliyu, Lagos

Former Governor of Osun State, Bisi Akande’s wife, Omowunmi has died aged 73.

The President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki led tributes, saying: “Nigeria has lost a quintessential mother and very supportive wife.

“As the First Lady of Osun State, Ma Akande displayed humility, love for all and solid support for her husband.

“My heart goes out to Chief Akande and the entire family in these trying moments,” he said in a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity.

Mrs Akande who married the elder statesman 51 years ago reportedly died on Tuesday, at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan.

The cause of her death has not been revealed by the family.