Jonathan urges prayers for Nigeria at otedola’s burial

             President Goodluck Jonathan on Friday urged Nigerians to pray for the country at the funeral service for a former governor of Lagos State, Sir Michael Otedola, in Epe, Lagos.

He called on Nigerians to pray for the country amid the frequent terrorist attacks, which have led to the deaths of many innocent people in the last five years.

          The President acknowledged that the country was passing through challenging times and therefore urged Nigerians to be committed in their prayers for the country.

He also made reference to other countries that had passed through similar challenges and encouraged Nigerians not to lose hope in the current situation.

             He said, “Please pray for the country. As a nation, we have challenges. Some other countries have passed through their challenges. Continue to pray for the nation with commitment.”

Meanwhile, the President joined many other prominent Nigerians to condole with Otedola family.

Jonathan advised Nigerians to emulate the lifestyle of the deceased whom he said had made a positive mark in his service to the country.

He said, “Issue like this gives us concerns, making us to think about life. To our late father, we are quite happy because he has left a mark in the sand of life. He has served us gracefully and has left us gracefully.

            “What lesson will we leave when we also leave this planet? That is the challenge for all of us. He has been a father to all. We pray that God would raise someone who will fill the gap that he has left.”

            Shortly after the service, Jonathan left in company of his wife, Patience, for Accra, Ghana, for an official assignment.

Otedola, who died on May 5, 2014 at the age of 88, was buried amid tight security with former President , Chief Olusegun Obasanjo; Jonathan’s wife, Patience; Lagos, Ogun and Anambra states governors, Babatunde Fashola, Ibikunle Amosun and former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, in attendance.

             Former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, and former Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, also attended the event among many other dignitaries.

             Delivering his sermon at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ibowon, Epe Local Government, Monsignor Philip Hoteyin, Chaplain of Marian Shrine, Lagos Catholic Diocese, urged President Goodluck Jonathan to strengthen the unity in the country.

            Hoteyin said, “Nigerians are everywhere. Everywhere you visit, Nigeria is regarded as the greatest. Let us remain one of the greatest countries that we have always been.”

He noted that the country was regarded as a family, adding that efforts must be made towards keeping the country as one.

The chaplain urged Nigerians not to forget that they were visitors on earth.