President Goodluck Jonathan; First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan; Governor of Bayelsa State, Seriake Dickson were among notable attendees when the remains of the female politicians who lost their lives in a fatal motor accident on their way to a party function were laid to rest on Tuesday, February 24, 2015 at the Bayelsa State cemetery, Azikoro in Yenagoa.
Also present were the first ladies from Anambra and Ekiti State, as the mourning party also held a special memorial service for the departed women at the Dr. Gabriel Okara Cultural Centre,
In his tribute ti the deceased, President Jonathan recalled he has a personal relationship with most of the women who died in the accident.
While describing the day the news of their death was brought to him as a Black Saturday, President Jonathan said he was hosting wives of fallen Nigerian soldiers, who had died in the ongoing war against insurgency in the North East.
He further described the world as a stage, adding that the women had played their roles,praying to God to grant the families of the women the heart to bear their loss. Mr. President also appreciated the Bayelsa State Government for giving the women a befitting farewell.
Dame Patience Jonathan on her part said the women were her sisters and friends who shared their dreams of better living for the masses, adding that she would continue reliving the fond memories she had of them.
Governor Dickson, while paying his condolences, said the death of the women would remain historic in the annals of the state.
He thanked President Jonathan and the First Lady for attending the funeral service, especially the First Lady, who had paid visits to the families of each of the women.
The Governor also appreciated every one who had sent condolence messages, letters and other correspondence to show support.
Professor Edmund Alison-Oguru, the Secretary to the State Government whose wife, Elizabeth was among those lost in the tragic crash, eulogized his wife, describing her as a humble and wonderful woman who lived a rewarding life.
