Iwuanyanwu prayed for me during confusion over Yar’adua’s illness – Jonathan

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has disclosed that the immediate past President of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu, always prayed for him when there was confusion in the country over President Umaru Musa Yar’adua’s ill-health.

Jonathan spoke on Friday during the service of songs session for the late Iwuanyanwu, held at the National Christian Centre in Abuja.

Recall that President Yar’adua who took over from Olusegun Obasanjo in 2007, later fell ill and died in 2010. But before his demise, there was confusion as he didn’t transmit a letter to the National Assembly mandating the vice president (Jonathan) to act, in line with the provisions of Section 145 of the 1999 Constitution.

Jonathan said, “When the President was sick (Yar’adua), and there was confusion in the country, he (Iwuanyanwu) always prayed for me. As a politician, he contributed very well to to the development of the society. We want to appreciate God for bringing him to us. He served God meritoriously.

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“He was a very active politicians and a strong member of the PDP. He contested presidency three times, but unfortunately, he didn’t make it.”

Also, a former governor of Imo State, Achike Udenwa said, “He was a great patriot. He had been a pillar from the creation of Imo State to the time of his death. It’s very painful he left us. But we Christians believe that after here, he will get a better life.”

Former Senate President, Anyim Pius Anyim also said, “I have lost a father. The Nigerian federation has lost a patriot. May his soul rest in peace.”

Imo State governor, Hope Uzodinma, who was represented by the deputy governor charged all to always think about what they would be remembered for after death.

Former Senate Presidents, Adolphus Wabara and Ken Nnamani, ministers, Chairman of the burial committee, Senator Ben Obi, and top government functionaries were part of the session.