Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
Former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), under the Sani Abacha military junta Lt. General Jeremiah Timbut Useni, is dead.
He died at the age of 81.
According to family sources, he died on Thursday, January 23, 2025, after a protracted illness in Paris.
He was born on February 16, 1943
The passing of the Useni was also contained in a statement by Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State.
His Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, signed the statement.
The governor described the death of General Useni as a great loss not only to his immediate family but also to the Nigerian Armed Forces, Plateau State, and the entire nation.
According to Mutfwang, General Useni’s exemplary leadership and steadfast commitment to service were remarkable.
He said his death had left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s security and political landscape.
He said that General Useni’s tireless efforts to promote peace and security, especially in Northern Nigeria and Plateau State, would forever be remembered.
The governor recalled the career of the late General, whom he said served Nigeria with distinction in various capacities, including as Minister of Transport, Quarter-Master General of the Nigerian Army, and Minister of the FCT.
“After retiring from the military, General Useni transitioned into politics, where he continued his service to the nation. He served as Deputy Chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and was elected Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District in 2015 under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP),” he said.
He lauded General Useni’s life of selfless service, pointing out his tremendous contributions to the military, politics, and his community.
He reiterated that the General’s legacy of compassion, kindness, generosity, and dedication to the well-being of others will endure in the lives of those he impacted.“On behalf of my family, the government, and the peace-loving people of Plateau State, I extend my deepest sympathies to the President, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the immediate family, and all those mourning the loss of this distinguished elder statesman.
Truth Live News Media reports that Jeremiah Timbut Useni (16 February 1943 – 23 January 2025) was a Nigerian army lieutenant general, who served as minister responsible for the administration of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja under the Sani Abacha military junta.
He served Nigeria in various capacities such as Minister for Transport and Quarter-Master General of the Nigeria Army.
Useni also served as Deputy Chairman of one of the significant parties in Nigeria, the All Nigeria Peoples Party.
He was elected Senator for the Plateau South constituency of Plateau State, Nigeria in the March 2015 national elections.
Useni was running on the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) platform.