World leaders, Buhari, mourn as Pope Benedict dies at 95

World leaders have eulogised the 95-year-old Catholic Pontiff, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who died in his residence at the Vatican’s Mater Ecclesiae Monastery on Saturday.

Vatican spokesman, Matteo Bruni, in a statement, said Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI died at 9:34 am in his residence, which he had chosen after resigning in 2013.

“With sorrow, I inform you that the Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, passed away today(Saturday) at 9:34 am in the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican. Further information will be provided as soon as possible. As of Monday morning, January 2, 2023, the body of Pope Emeritus will be in Saint Peter’s Basilica so the faithful can bid farewell,” said the statement announcing his death.

Reacting to the news of his demise, President Muhammadu Buhari commiserated with Pope Francis, the Catholic Church in Nigeria and around the world, as well as all Christian faithful who mourn the passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.

The president in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, paid tribute to Benedict XVI who was greatly admired globally for his selfless leadership, renowned learning as a theologian, and dedication to advancing inter-faith dialogue and peace.

According to the statement, “President Buhari believes that the late Pontiff will be remembered as a true servant of God who used the benevolent gifts of the Almighty upon his life to serve the Church and humanity in humility, reverence and piety, living in word and deed the virtues of a true Christian disciple.”

Also reacting, German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, paid tribute to the former pope, referring to him as a “special church leader” who helped shape the Catholic church.