Former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has congratulated ex-Head
of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd) on his 82nd birthday, describing him
as a symbol of national unity.
In a letter of felicitation to Gowon Jonathan thanked God for blessing
the ex-military Head of State with long life in good health.
A statement issued by Ikechukwu Eze, Jonathan’s media aide, also
quoted the former President as praising Gowon for his exemplary
leadership which ensured that Nigeria’s corporate existence remained
unshaken at a difficult period in the nation’s history.
It said further: “Your Excellency, I wish to, sincerely, congratulate
you on your 82nd birthday.
“It has pleased God Almighty to bless you with long life in good
health, for which we will continue to give Him thanks.
“You are a great nationalist and patriot who contributed so much to
ensure that Nigeria remained one. You led the country at a difficult
period in our history, when the unity of our dear country came under
grave threat. There is no doubt that your exemplary leadership,
strength of purpose and uncommon wisdom ensured that Nigeria’s
corporate existence remained unshaken.
“Even out of office, you have continued to be a symbol of national
unity and strength. Many generations of Nigerians will continue to be
grateful to you. It is my sincere prayer that God Almighty blesses
you with more productive years, and may He answer your relentless
prayers for a more united, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.
Meanwhile, former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has expressed grief over
the death of Ken Saro-Wiwa Jnr, describing him as a bright star and
patriot.
The former President stated this in a condolence message to the
family, adding that the late Saro-Wiwa, who served in his Government
as Senior Special Assistant on Civil Society and International Media,
was a strong advocate for a just society.
In a statement issued yesterday by Ikechukwu Eze, Jonathan’s media
aide, the former President further said:
“I am deeply saddened by the passage to eternal glory, of Mr Ken
Saro-Wiwa Jnr, who died at the age of 48.
A bright star has been prematurely plucked from the Nigerian
firmament. Ken Wiwa Jnr, like his father, Ken Saro Wiwa, was a
patriot.
“He was a consummate writer, highly driven and determined crusader
with an undiluted sense of citizen rights, equity and justice.
“ Ken was friendly, humane, idealistic and selfless, giving freely of
himself in service to humanity, without expecting any personal reward.
“My prayers are with the family he left behind. Adieu great son of Nigeria.”
