- Safiu Kehinde
Former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and retired Nigerian militant, Lt.Gen Jeremiah Useni, has died at the age of 82.
This was announced in a statement issued in Jos by Gyang Bere, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to Plateau State governor, Caleb Mutfwang.
According to the statement, Useni passed away on Thursday after a protracted illness.
Mutfwang, in his tribute, described the former Minister and Quarter Master General of the Nigerian Army as a tremendous loss not only to his immediate family but also to the Nigerian Armed Forces, Plateau State, and the entire nation.
Highlighting the roles played by the late army general, the Plateau governor noted that he left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s security and political landscape with his tireless efforts to promote peace and security, especially in Northern Nigeria and Plateau State.
Mutfwang expressed his condolences with the ex-Minister’s family.
He prayed that God grants the family, plateau state, and the nation the strength and fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss, and also asked for God’s divine presence to comfort and provide solace in the days ahead.
Useni’s demise has attracted tributes from political dignitaries who lauded the former FCT Minister for his service to the nation.
In a post on his X handle, former Kwara state governor, Bukola Saraki, described the late Useni as a man of profound wisdom and boundless energy.
He expressed his thoughts with the family and people of Plateau state.
“My family and I join the nation in mourning the passing of a true patriot, Lieutenant General Jeremiah Useni—former Governor of Bendel State, one-time Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and one-term Senator representing Plateau South.
“General Useni was a man of profound wisdom and boundless energy—defined by selfless service and dedication to our nation. He was a patriot, through and through.
“His leadership in Plateau State, North Central Zone, and across the country stands as a testament to his character and vision.
“Tonight, our deepest thoughts and heartfelt prayers are with his family, the people of Plateau State, and the Nigerian Armed Forces as they navigate this profound loss.
“May the Almighty grant comfort to all those mourning the passing of this great statesman.” Saraki wrote.
In the same vein, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Nentawe Yilwatda, described Useni’s demise as a monumental loss.
He lauded the ex-FCT Minister for leaving an indelible mark on the development of Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
“It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of General Jeremiah Useni, a distinguished leader, patriot, and true son of Plateau State.
“His passing is a monumental loss to our state, the nation, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
“General Useni was a man whose remarkable contributions spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on the development of Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
“His tireless dedication to the service of our people, particularly his relentless pursuit of peace and progress, will forever be remembered.
“Through his leadership and vision, he touched many lives, inspiring generations of Nigerians to serve with honour and purpose.
“His legacy as a military officer, parliamentarian, public servant, and statesman stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to the betterment of our people and our land. General Useni’s service to Plateau State and the country was not merely in titles but in the countless lives he influenced positively.
“As we mourn his departure, let us also celebrate a life well-lived, one that exemplifies resilience, strength, and dedication to the common good.
“Rest well, General Useni. You will be sorely missed but never forgotten.” Yilwatda wrote in a post on his X handle.