Nelson Mandela, a great freedom fighter, has passed away at age 95. It was the South African government who confirmed the death of the global icon which sparked numerous Twitter reactions of celebrities and normal social media users as a tribute to the popular political leader.

According to an Eonline article, Mandela died of complications brought about by his recurring lung infection. It has been the meat of many news that he was hospitalized since June 8.

Here are some of the top tribute tweets as expression of mourning for the loss of such a great soul:

Whoopi Goldberg

"I want 2give the world a hug I was told Mandeba just passed. Nelson Mandela R.I.P. Time for a well earned sleep. Condolences to his family."

Samuel L. Jackson

"Never met a better person in my life than Nelson Mandela. My sympathy to his family & his country."

William Shatner

"I hope the great work started by Nelson Mandela continiues to spread across the world. He will be remembered as an icon for equality."

Simon Cowell

"So sad to hear about Nelson Mandela. Rest in peace."

Ryan Phillippe

"What an amazing life lead by Madiba. A light & inspiration to the world... The privilege of spending a small amount of private time w/ Mr. Mandela as he held by baby daughter, is a highlight of my life...It was like being in the presence of a diety."

"He truly emanated warmth and humanity. Imperfect, like us all, but w/ a strength few possess...Mandela was bouncing Ava, then two yrs old, on his knee & called her, 'future leader'. I couldn't believe it in that moment. I still can't"

Kelly Obsourne

"Today is officially one of the saddest days! The world has lost the most inspirational person to every walk the earth RIP #NelsonMandela."

Josh Groban

"We have lost one of humanity's greatest treasures. RIP Madiba. I will never forget the lessons learned from him or his vision that lives on."

Mike Tyson

"I'm hearing about Nelson Mandela's death while on African soil in Oran, Algeria. Sending prayers to Mandela's family."

John Cusack

"Rest in Peace Nelson #Mandela - a true champion of #HumanRights." Peace - justice - love"

Other messages came from the most popular political icons from around the globe:

South African President Jacob Zuma

"He passed on peacefully in the company of his family... He is now resting. He is now at peace. Our nation has lost its greatest son. Our people have lost a father."

U.S. President Obama

"He achieved more than could be expected of any man and today he has gone home."

"We have lost one of the most influential, courageous and profoundly good human beings that any of us will share time with on this earth. He no longer belongs to us; he belongs to the ages."

Former U.S. President George Bush

"President Mandela was one of the great forces for freedom and equality of our time. He bore his burdens with dignity and grace, and our world is better off because of his example. This good man will be missed, but his contributions will live on forever."

(Video Credit: YouTube/recentblackhistory)