President Goodluck Jonathan has declared
three days of national mourning, starting on
Friday, in honour of former South African
President Dr. Nelson Mandela, his
spokesman said today. In a condolence message to President
Jacob Zuma, the Nigeria leader said
Mandela’s death created a huge vacuum
that will be difficult to fill in Africa. “He will be sorely missed by all who cherish
love, peace and freedom the world over and
will be eternally honoured for his immense
contribution to the dismantling of the
apartheid policy, one of the world’s most
obnoxious systems whose under-pining philosophy was the degradation of man by
man.” Jonathan praised Mandela as a source of
inspiration to the oppressed peoples of the
world, citing his unparalleled personal
sacrifices in the course of his life-long epic
struggle for freedom, fairness, justice, equity
and the human rights of all oppressed people. “The indefatigable spirit which he
demonstrated throughout his life will
continue to inspire present and future
generations,” Jonathan said. “Dr. Mandela will always be remembered and
honoured by all mankind as one of its
greatest liberators, a wise, courageous and
compassionate leader, and an icon of true
democracy.” Flags will be flown at half-mast across
Nigeria during the period of national
mourning. President Jonathan urged Nigerians to unite
in solidarity with the brotherly people of
South Africa as they mourn the great
liberator, freedom fighter and hero of the
black race. He also called for special prayers in
mosques and churches in Nigeria during the
period of mourning for the peaceful repose of
Dr. Mandela’s soul.
Source : Saharareporters.com