Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan memorialized his late elder sister, Madam Obebhatein Jonathan, as an “exemplary woman and role model” during her funeral service on Friday in their home state of Bayelsa.
Madam Obebhatein, who died at 70 on January 11 2024, was the only surviving sibling of the former President from his aged mother, Mama Eunice Afeni-Jonathan.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said that he received the news of the death of his elder sister, Madam Obebhatein Jonathan, while he was in London, adding that the death of Obebhatein traumatised her mum.
In a heartfelt statement, Jonathan said: “Today, friends and associates joined my family to bid a final farewell to my late elder sister. She was not just a sister but also a guide, a confidant, and a fellow dream-weaver. Together, we navigated the labyrinth of life, chasing shared dreams with a determination known only to those who truly understand the power of close sibling camaraderie. Even though she is no longer with us in body, her memory, and the love we shared will forever remain in my heart. Even though her death is painful, we take solace in the fact that she was an exemplary woman and role model who lived a dedicated life of service to God and humanity. May her soul rest in peace.”
Jonathan reflected on his sister as a trusted confidante throughout life’s journey. Despite the grief of her passing, he took pride in Obebhatein’s spiritual service and virtuous example that touched many lives in Bayelsa.
He also called on the clergy and all people of goodwill not to relent in their prayers for his traumatised mother, himself and the entire members of the Jonathan family.
“Death, as they say, is something we all pass through,” he said.
“But the time it comes also matters. Yes, we will all die womeday 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.”
Family and friends gathered on Friday to bid farewell and celebrate her legacy of wisdom, compassion and faith.
