A large number of family, friends and well-wishers in Lagos on Tuesday paid tributes to the late former Head of Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan, who died on Jan. 11 at the age of 85.

Speaking during a Service of Songs held at Cathedral Church of Christ Marina, Lagos, they described Shonekan as humble, gentle, a man of good character and a nation builder whose life was worthy of emulation.

Speaking, Mr Soji Kuboye, Secretary, Cathedral Torch Bearers, described the late former Head of State as a statesman of uncommon humility and grace.

“He served the good Lord, the Cathedral Torch Bearers, Cathedral Church, Anglican Community, our country, Nigeria and humanity at large in the most diligent and successful manner through out his lifetime.

“He served with courage and power as the Interim Head of State of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and was the holder of the highest award of the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“He also served at the commanding heights of the economy as captain of many industries, ” he said.

Also, a representative of the Busy Bees Women’s society, Mrs Ore Dawodu, said Shonekan, until his demise had been a supportive patron of the society.

Dawodu described him as humble, unassuming and approachable.

“Chief Shonekan, until his demise was the founding patron of the Busy Bees Women’s Society which was founded 36 years ago.

“He has been a very supporting patron; whenever we call upon him, he was always faithful to assist; we thank God for his life; May his soul rest in peace and rise in glory, ” Dawodu said.

In his vote of thanks, the eldest son of Shonekan, Mr Adeboye Shonekan, expressed gratitude to the church for organising the service of songs

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He said that his father also loved his family beyond the love of God.

“We are smiling, because he had a full life; he had the love for God and mankind, and he obviously loved his family; I am glad, not just us, but also our children.

“We really appreciate all the testimonies we have heard this evening; what we are left with are the indelible, beautiful memories.

“May his gentle soul rest in peace, ” Shonekan said.

Shonekan was born in Lagos on May 9, 1936.

He attended CMS Grammar School and Igbobi College and received a law degree from the University of London.

He served as the interim Head of State of Nigeria from Aug. 26, 1993 to Nov. 17, 1993.