Otuoke, February 17, 2024 – Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan expressed deep sorrow at the funeral of his elder sister, Madam Obebhatein Jonathan, held in Otuoke, Bayelsa State, on Friday.
Jonathan revealed that he received the news of his sister’s passing while he was in London, adding that her death deeply affected their elderly mother, Mama Eunice Afeni-Jonathan. Madam Obebhatein, aged 70, passed away on January 11, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and family bonds.
Speaking at the funeral, Jonathan lamented the timing of his sister’s passing, noting that it coincided with a period when a significant gathering of dignitaries could have celebrated her life. However, the sombre reality was that their mother was left to mourn her loss.
He urged clergy and well-wishers to continue offering prayers for his grieving mother, himself, and the entire Jonathan family during this challenging time.
Jonathan remarked, “Death is an inevitable part of life, but the timing of its arrival matters greatly. My sister’s departure occurred at a time when we could have gathered esteemed personalities to celebrate her life. Yet it is our aged mother who now mourns her, which is the bitter irony of it all.”
He expressed gratitude to those who provided support to his mother during his absence in London, emphasising her continued trauma over the loss.
The funeral saw the presence of notable figures, including Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, Senator Seriake Dickson, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Heineken Lokpobiri, and former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim.
Governor Diri conveyed condolences on behalf of the state government, emphasising the inevitability of death and the importance of the legacy left behind. He praised Madam Obebhatein’s resilience and urged others to emulate her determination and courage.
The solemn occasion was also marked by a sermon from Bishop Funkuro Amgbari, who urged believers to find solace in the scriptures during difficult times and emphasised the importance of leading a righteous life in preparation for eternity.
As the Jonathan family bids farewell to their beloved matriarch, the community stands in solidarity, offering support and prayers during this period of mourning.
