President Goodluck Jonathan on Monday postponed the inauguration of his campaign team by 24 hours as a mark of respect for his younger sister who died at the weekend.
The President, through his spokesman, Dr. Reuben Abati, on Sunday announced the death of his younger sister, Nancy Jonathan-Olei, at the age of 52.
However, the postponement of the inauguration of the campaign team was conveyed to the members of the Goodluck Jonathan Campaign Organisation, party chieftains and others guests as they were seated at the Legacy House, Maitama, Abuja, awaiting the arrival of the President.
When it was obvious that Jonathan would no longer be coming, his Political Adviser, Prof. Rufai Alkali, announced that the inauguration would now take place on Tuesday at the same venue.
Alkali said: “As you are all aware, His Excellency lost his sister, Mrs. Nancy Jonathan-Olei, yesterday (Sunday).
“In view of this, he has decided to suspend this inauguration for today until tomorrow at 11am.
“Mr. President has asked me to convey his apologies for the inconveniences this postponement has caused and to tell you it was due to circumstances beyond our control.”
Meanwhile, before the guests departed Legacy House, the presidential campaign office of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, they observed a one-minute silence for the repose of the deceased’s soul.
The Jonathan Campaign Organisation is headed by a former National Chairman of the party, Dr. Ahmadu Ali, with the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Chief Tony Anenih, as Campaign Adviser.
Also to assist Ali are three Deputy Directors-General: Prof. Tunde Adeniran (National Office), ex-Governor Peter Obi (South) and Special Duties Minister, Kabiru Tanimu (North).
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