Azazi’s Family And The Nigerian Army State Argue Over Where To Bury Azazi

Late General Andrew Azazi (rtd)

Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State has announced on Wednesday that the former National Security Adviser, late Gen. Andrew Azazi, would be given a befitting state burial on Saturday, December 29 in Yenagoa.

The decision of the Bayelsa State government to accord Azazi a state burial was in recognition of his enviable record of service to the state and country.

Meanwhile, Azazi’s  family wants him buried in his home village of Peretorugbene in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State in line with the tradition of the area.

However,  the Nigerian Army, pleaded that the burial be done in the state capital to enable its officers and men to accord their departed hero full military honours in line with their tradition. The army pointed out the huge logistic challenges that would be involved in taking the body of the late General and hordes of military personnel and equipment to Peretorugbene for the burial.

The approved official burial arrangements are as follows:

Friday 28, December 2012
1. Service of Songs
Venue: Peace Park, Yenagoa
Time:  5pm Prompt

2. Entertainment of Invited Guests/Dignitaries
Venue: Government House, Banquet Hall
Time:  8pm

Saturday 29th December 2012
1. Commendation Service
Venue: Peace Park, Yenagoa
Time: 9am

2. Interment
In view of the Late General Azazi ‘s illustrious Military career and his remarkable contributions to Bayelsa State and Nigeria as a whole, his  remains will be laid to rest at the Ijaw National Heroes Park in Yenagoa, the State capital. This is to clearly demonstrate our respect and high regard for General Andrew Owoye Azazi as a true hero of the Ijaw Nation.
Time: 12pm

3.  State Reception for Guests/Dignitaries
Time: 2pm prompt

4.  Departure