Former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, has announced the sudden death of his longtime special assistant, Mr. Ndifreke Saviour Mark, who collapsed and died in a hotel in Abuja.
Fani-Kayode shared the sad news on his official X (formerly Twitter) account early on Monday, October 21, 2024.
He explained that Mark had left his home early on Sunday, October 13, to attend Mass at the Catholic Church of Assumption in Asokoro.
Afterward, he went to a hotel with an unidentified person, where the tragic incident occurred.
“According to the police, he took a room at the hotel, spent time with an individual, and apparently slumped and died in that person’s presence,” Fani-Kayode revealed.
Mark, who had worked with Fani-Kayode for over 34 years, was rushed to Asokoro District Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. The person with him at the time of his collapse has been taken into police custody as investigations continue. The police are treating the case as suspicious, and a full criminal investigation is underway.
Fani-Kayode expressed his deep sorrow, describing Mark as a loyal and trusted aide who was like family to him. “He was like a son to me, and his passing is a huge blow to my family and me. We shared many dreams and aspirations, and now he has gone, it has left much pain,” he said.
The hotel where the incident occurred, Mildy Lodge and Apartments in Garki, was sealed for two days as investigations began. The room where Mark lodged remains sealed, and hotel staff, including the receptionist, have been detained for questioning. The hotel’s manager and owner have also been invited by the police for further investigation.
Fani-Kayode has promised his full support to Mark’s family during this difficult time. He assured them, particularly Mark’s wife, Barrister Patience Ndifreke-Mark, that he would ensure justice if any foul play is found. “I have absolute confidence in the FCT Police Command to get to the bottom of this matter,” he stated, adding that an autopsy would be carried out to determine the exact cause of death.
Remembering Mark, Fani-Kayode paid tribute to his character, saying, “He was a kind, reliable, and compassionate individual who brought joy to many and was incapable of hurting a fly.”
Mark is survived by his wife and two children.
