The son of leading NHS doctor, Dr Alfa Saadu, who recently died of coronavirus in the UK, has spoken about the death of his father, and the virus.

The coronavirus has killed over 40,000 people globally, and unfortunately, 68-year-old Dr Alfa Saadu was among the victims of the virus.

The doctor, who grew up in Nigeria’s Kwara state, moved to the UK when he was 12 years old and worked for most of his career in the UK, with a stint of teaching at a hospital in Nigeria.

His son Dani posted on Facebook:

“He had been fighting the virus for two weeks but he could not fight any more.

“The NHS were amazing and did everything they could.

“My dad was a living legend, worked for the NHS for 40 years saving people’s lives here and in Africa.

“Up until he got sick, he was still working part-time saving people.

“The coronavirus is not a joke, please take it seriously and listen to the government.

“Please stay safe and protect your loved ones, nothing is more important.”

Lance McCarthy, chief executive of the Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust, said Dr Saadu was “well known” at the trust and will be fondly remembered.

“It is with saddest that we learn of the passing of Dr Alfa Saadu,” he said.

“Alfa was well-known at the trust for his passion for ensuring our patients received high quality care. He was a committed member of the team and is remembered fondly by many.

“His family and friends are in our thoughts at this sad time.”