by Rachel Ogbu

Nigeria has officially joined South Africa and the rest of the world to mourn ex-South African President, Nelson Mandela who passed away December 5 aged 95.

President Goodluck Jonathan said from today a three-day national mourning would commence in Nigeria and flags are to be flown at half-mast across Nigeria during the period.

President Jonathan who was in Paris, France on Friday to join other world leaders participating in a summit on peace and security in Africa urged all Nigerians to unite in solidarity with the brotherly people of South Africa as they mourn the great liberator, freedom fighter and hero of the black race.

According to agency news, the President also called for special prayers in mosques and churches in Nigeria during the period of mourning  for the peaceful repose of Mandela’s soul.

A special inter-denominational memorial service for Dr. Mandela will be held at the State House Chapel on Sunday.