The family of the late human rights lawyer, Gani Fawehinmi, has disclosed that his first son Mohammed, died of COVID-19 related complications.
Saheed Fawehinmi, brother of the deceased, revealed the cause of Mohammed’s death at a media briefing in Lagos on Thursday.
The purpose of the brief press conference was said to be in two folds—first, to provide clarification on the cause of the death of Barrister Mohammed Fawehinmi, and— the second was to give the full details of the burial plan.
According to Saheed Fawehinmi, “As stated during the previous press conference, the family could not immediately disclose the cause of our brother’s death because we wanted the information to be based on factual medical details especially as maybe contained in the death certificate.
“Today, however, we are in a position to inform you that our dear brother died from Covid-19 related complications”.
He urged all Nigerians to take necessary precautions to avoid being infected by the deadly disease including but not limited to; taking the required doses of Covid-19 vaccine, correctly wearing face masks, regularly sanitizing, regularly washing hands with soap and maintaining social distancing amidst crowds.
He said, “We urge the government to step up its public enlightenment on the deadly character of the disease so that many more Nigerians, especially those whose immune system could easily be compromised because of underlying illnesses, can take the safety measures enumerated above.
“Additionally and in line with our late brother’s consistent advocacy, we call on the Federal and state governments to invest more in health care. In particular we urge the government to do all that is necessary to end the ongoing strike by members of the National Association of Resident Doctors”.
With respect to the burial details, he disclosed that the service of songs and the night of tributes will be held on Wednesday August 25, 2021 at the Archbishop Vining Cathedral in Ikeja from 4:00 to 7:00p.m.
“The two events will be divided into two halves. The night of tributes will enable friends, associates, partners, comrades, human rights activists, pro-democracy, trade union and socialist groups to pay their tribute.
“In the morning of Friday August 27, 2021, the remains of our brother would be interred at the Gani Fawehinmi family compound in Ondo Town after a brief funeral service.
“We welcome those who would like to identify with us during these ceremonies but in view of the prevailing Covid-19 pandemic we would ideally appreciate it if the crowd is limited”, he said.
Mohammed, who was 52 years old, died last week.
