The former Head of Interim National Government (ING), late Chief Ernest Shonekan was finally laid to rest yesterday, after he was buried at Ebony Vaults, Ikoyi, Lagos.
Shonekan died on January 11, 2022.
The ceremonies attracted people from all walks of life, including past Nigerian leaders, General Yakubu Gowon, Goodluck Jonathan and current Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, among others.
A funeral service was held in his honour, yesterday at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Lagos.
The Old Grammarians’ Society (OGS) of the C.M.S Grammar School, Lagos, held a service of songs in honour on Thursday at the premises of CMS in Lagos.
At the burial in Lagos, in attendance were former Head Of State Yakubu Gowon; former President Goodluck Jonathan; Secretary to the Government of Federation, Boss Mustapha; Information and Culture Minister Lai Mohammed; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State; Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun; as well as the Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki.
Osinbajo, who led the Federal Government delegation, described the late Shonekan as a man of integrity, saying he steadied Nigeria’s ship at a turbulent time.
“Ernest Shonekan lived an extraordinary life. But perhaps what deserves greater attention is the way he carried himself through life and the high values he exemplified,” the Vice President said.
“That genuine respect that he had for all people of all classes, religions, and tribes, his unflinching belief in the inherent goodness in everyone, his love and generosity not just for his family but to all.
“His knowledge and experience-driven leadership and counsel that he provided always with unfailing humility and courteousness; these were the unique virtues that underpinned his extraordinary achievements.”
