Former President Goodluck Jonathan has solicited for prayers for his mother, Eunice Jonathan, after she recently lost her eight child.
The call was made during the funeral service of Jonathan’s elder sister, Obebhatein Jonathan, held at the Dame Patience Jonathan Square in Otuoke, Bayelsa State.
Obebhatein Jonathan, aged 70, passed away on January 11 after a brief illness, according to Politics Nigeria.
Jonathan, who is now the only surviving son of his mother, expressed the deep impact of his sister’s death on their mother and requested the support and prayers of Nigerians.
While thanking those who attended the funeral, Jonathan emphasized the need for empathy and spiritual strength during this challenging time.
Jonathan said, “Death, as they say, is something we all pass through. But the time it comes also matters. Yes, we will all die someday but the time matters.
“My elder sister died at a time that we can gather these celebrities to celebrate her, but that our mother is to mourn her is the nasty aspect of the whole thing.
“My mother has lost her first child that ought to mourn her when God calls her. I have to sincerely thank the Bayelsa State First Lady and other women who came around her because I was then in London.
““If you knew what she used to be and what she is now, you would know that she is still traumatised. So continue to pray for my mum. God will see us through. I thank you.”
Dogood Qkpufu, the second son of the deceased, urged women to emulate his mother’s virtues.
He highlighted her determination to pursue education, eventually becoming a teacher.
Omonibele Azibanyeluan, daughter of the late Obebhatein, remembered her mother as a woman of simplicity, peace, patience, and strong faith.
“She was a good woman, peaceful, patient and God-fearing,” she said.
