CDD extols Tutu’s virtues, says late cleric one of Africa’s leading peace-builders

Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) has mourned passing of the late South African cleric, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, describing him as an iconic democrat and peace-builder.

CDD, one of Africa’s leading policy think tanks, said Tutu’s contribution to ending apartheid in South Africa and entrenching one of Africa’s thriving democracies would never be forgotten.

In a statement signed by its Director, Idayat Hassan, CDD recalled the courageous role played by Tutu in mobilising global opposition to the dark regime in South Africa.

It said: “As a Christian minister, Tutu believed in one humanity and a just and free world.”

CDD also recalled the heroic role played by the late cleric in bridging gaps of division between Nigeria and his country, particularly recurring xenophobic attacks.

It said: “We could vividly recall how he stood tall in defence of Africa’s unity, calling for love, peace, and renewed friendship among Africans during the apartheid regime and until the end of his life. Without a doubt, Desmond Tutu’s death is a huge loss to his country and the African continent.

“With his demise, Tutu has transitioned to the ancestral plain, joining his contemporaries, including Nelson Mandela, Winnie Mandela, Steve Biko, Victoria and Griffiths Mxenge, Denis Goldberg etc., who stood in fearless resistance to hate and oppression.

“South Africa, Africa, and the world will miss this unrivalled humanist, emancipator and democrat. While we mourn this icon, we take solace in the indelible legacy of love he has left behind.”