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A former military Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, has described as untrue, reports that he slumped in Delta State on Friday, May 3, during the funeral ceremonies of former Military Governor of defunct Midwest Region, Major General David Akpodiete Ejoor.
Reports went viral last week that the 85-year-old former Head of State collapsed mid way into an oration at the grave side of late Major General Ejoor, in Ovwor-Olomu Community, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State. It was claimed that cameras could not capture or cover the moment because military personnel present at the event blocked off the tent where the incident occurred.
But while addressing the congregation during the thanksgiving service for the 32nd annual Fresh Fire Convention of Gethsemane Prayer Ministries (GPMI) in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital at the weekend, Gowon described the news as false.
Gen. Gowon, who is the National Chairman of Nigeria Prays, was represented at the occasion by the Secretary of the Christian group, Evangelist Austen Kemie.
Kemie said: “I am representing General Gowon at this gathering. He said he did not slump as reported in the news few days ago. Though he is 85 years old, he is still waxing stronger and stronger. But, the false news went all over the world.
“He (Gowon) said calls were coming to him from Canada, America, United Kingdom and other countries of the world on the news that he slumped. He asked me when we spoke if I could see how strong he was. He said he could walk 10miles.”
The retired general felicitated with the ministry on the dedication of your Bethel Prayer Suites, Retreat and Conference Centre.
He said: “It is, indeed, another significant milestone in the life of Gethsemane Prayer Ministries worldwide. However, as much as I wish to attend, due to earlier commitment, I was unable to attend. But, I am with you in spirit and in truth.
“Wishing you success and God’s blessing on this occasion. Our prayer is that the new retreat center will serve as a centre of excellence and an enduring legacy, not only for Gethsemane Prayer Ministries, but the entire body of Christ. On behalf of Nigeria Prays, I send my sincere congratulations”.
In his vote of thanks at the end of the convention and dedication service, the President, GPMI, Rev. Moses Aransiola, expressed appreciation to the former Head of State, the executive arm of Nigeria Prays and other men of God, who graced the occasion, for their prayer to the nation and for their gestures to his ministries.
Aransiola, who called for concerted efforts of all towards nation building and the work of God, said: “I want all the people to know that God will continue to honour the prayers of his people and bless the work of their hands.”
The theme of the convention was ‘Jesus: Access to Greater Glory’. The programme also featured the dedication of the church’s Bethel Prayer Suites, Retreat and Conference Centre, at the Chapel of Light, Eleyele area of the city.