Jonathan declares three-day mourning for Mandela

President Goodluck Jonathan on Friday declared
three days of national mourning for former South
African President, Dr. Nelson Mandela, who passed
away on Thursday.
According to a statement by the Special Adviser to
the President on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben
Abati, national flags would be flown at half-mast
across the country during the mourning period.
The period will also feature special prayers in
mosques and churches nationwide.
The mourning period is expected to be rounded up
with a special inter-denominational memorial
service to be held in honour of the deceased at the
State House Chapel on Sunday.
The statement read, "President Goodluck Ebele
Jonathan has declared three days of national
mourning for former South African President, Dr.
Nelson Mandela who passed away yesterday (on
Thursday).
"Flags are to be flown at half-mast across Nigeria
during the period and President Jonathan urges all
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.
"The President also calls for special prayers in
mosques and churches in Nigeria during the period
of mourning which begins today, for the peaceful
repose of Dr. Mandela's soul.
"A special inter-denominational memorial service for
Dr. Mandela will be held at the State House Chapel
on Sunday."
Jonathan had earlier in a statement on Thursday
described the deceased as one of the greatest sons of
Africa.
He said though his death came at an advanced age of
95, it would create a huge vacuum that would be
difficult to fill on the continent.
He added that the deceased would be sorely missed
by all who cherish love, peace and freedom all over
the world.