*Obaseki mourns passing of Nigeria's first female Senator, Sen. Franca Afegbua*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has mourned the passing of former Senator who represented Bendel North Senatorial District of Old Bendel State and Nigeria's first elected Senator, Senator Franca Afegbua, who passed aged 79 years.

In a statement, the governor described Senator Afegbua as a “pace-setter, trail-blazer and visioner” who remains an inspiration for women in Nigeria and across Africa.

According to him, “I am saddened by the news of the passing of Nigeria's first elected Senator, who represented Bendel North Senatorial District of Old Bendel State.

“She was an entrepreneur who championed the cause of female representation in government and gender mainstreaming at a time when it was a herculean task. She was a trailblazer who deserves to be celebrated for her bravery and exemplary exploits.”

The governor said the death of Senator Afegbua was a huge loss because she was an inspiration to young girls, who are in need of mentors.