Newspaper patron and influential media leader, Mallam Ismaila Isa Funtua is dead.
He died in Abuja while undergoing a routine medical check-up.
He reportedly suffered a massive heart attack during the medical check-up.
He is also said to be a close ally of President Muhammadu Buhari.
A Special Assistant to the President, Bashir Ahmad, confirmed his death.
He tweeted: βInna lillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiβun! Just heard about Mallam Ismaila Isa Funtuaβs sudden death. This life! May Allah accept his soul, forgive his shortcomings and grant him Jannah al-Firdaus.β
He was 78 years old..
