YENAGOA, BAYELSA - (January 13, 2024) - A somber mood has descended upon Otuoke, Bayelsa State, and the nation as a whole, following the passing of Mrs. Ayiwei Eriye, the elder sister of former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. Mrs. Eriye, affectionately known as Amissi, succumbed to a brief illness on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at the Federal Medical Centre in Yenagoa. She was 70 years old.
A statement issued by Jonathan's media office described Amissi as "a devoted Christian, a virtuous woman, and a role model to many within and outside her community." She was a retired teacher and businesswoman, a loving mother to three children, and a doting grandmother. Her infectious laughter and unwavering support for her family and community will be deeply missed.
Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State led the outpouring of condolences, describing Amissi as "a pillar of strength and a source of inspiration to countless Bayelsans." He declared a three-day period of mourning in the state.
Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum, with current and former leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and former President Olusegun Obasanjo, expressing their sympathies to the Jonathan family.
The details of the funeral arrangements are yet to be announced, but it is expected to be a solemn and well-attended affair, reflecting the esteem in which Amissi was held.
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#AmissiIsGone
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#GoneButNotForgotten
#ALifeWellLived
#ExPresidentJonathan
#FormerFirstLadyPatriciaJonathan
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#Nigeria
