Edo state governor, Godwin Obaseki, has said the late former first female Senator Franka Afegbua, remains a pace-setter, trail-blazer and visioner” who remains an inspiration for women in Nigeria and across Africa.

Afegbua was elected the senator representing Bendel-north in October 1983 under the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in Nigeria’s second republic.

DIPLOMATIC DIARY reports that Afegbua died on Sunday in Benin-City, the Edo State capital at aged 79.

Expressing his condolences, Obaseki described Afegbua’s death as a huge loss because she was an inspiration to young girls, who are in need of mentors.

”I am saddened by the news of the passing of Nigeria’s first democratically elected female Senator, who represented Bendel North Senatorial District of Old Bendel.

“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”, he said.