Mandela: Nigeria To Observe Three Days Of National Mourning

Nelson Mandela

By SaharaReporters, New York

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.