Jonathan congratulates Gowon at 82, mourns late Saro-Wiwa Jnr

Former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has congratulated ex-Head

of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd) on his 82nd birthday, describing him

as a symbol of national unity.
In a letter of felicitation to Gowon Jonathan thanked God for blessing

the ex-military Head of State with long life in good health.

A statement issued by Ikechukwu Eze, Jonathan's media aide, also

quoted the former President as praising Gowon for his exemplary

leadership which ensured that Nigeria's corporate existence remained

unshaken at a difficult period in the nation's history.

It said further: 'Your Excellency, I wish to, sincerely, congratulate

you on your 82nd birthday.
'It has pleased God Almighty to bless you with long life in good

health, for which we will continue to give Him thanks.

'You are a great nationalist and patriot who contributed so much to

ensure that Nigeria remained one. You led the country at a difficult

period in our history, when the unity of our dear country came under

grave threat. There is no doubt that your exemplary leadership,

strength of purpose and uncommon wisdom ensured that Nigeria's

corporate existence remained unshaken.
'Even out of office, you have continued to be a symbol of national

unity and strength. Many generations of Nigerians will continue to be

grateful to you.  It is my sincere prayer that God Almighty blesses

you with more productive years, and may He answer your relentless

prayers for a more united, peaceful  and  prosperous Nigeria.

Meanwhile, former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has expressed grief over

the death of Ken Saro-Wiwa Jnr, describing him as a bright star and

patriot.
The former President stated this in a condolence message to the

family, adding that the late Saro-Wiwa, who served in his Government

as Senior Special Assistant on Civil Society and International Media,

was a strong advocate for a just society.
In a statement issued yesterday by Ikechukwu Eze, Jonathan's media

aide, the former President further said:
'I am deeply saddened by the passage to eternal glory, of Mr Ken

Saro-Wiwa Jnr, who died at the age of 48.
A bright star has been prematurely plucked from the Nigerian

firmament.  Ken Wiwa Jnr, like his father, Ken Saro Wiwa, was a

patriot.
'He was a consummate writer, highly driven and determined crusader

with an undiluted sense of citizen rights, equity and justice.

' Ken was friendly, humane, idealistic and selfless, giving freely of

himself in service to humanity, without expecting any personal reward.

'My prayers are with the family he left behind. Adieu great son of Nigeria.'