….As Wike, Other Mourn
Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
President Bola Tinubu has praised the sterling quality of the late Lieutenant-General Jeremiah Useni, saying that he was a man who demonstrated a great courage and dedication throughout his military career and inspired many young officers to put the interest of the national above their personal gains.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga and made available to Journalists.
Mr. Onanuga said that the President expressed profound sorrow over the death of Useni, former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), who passed away on January 23, 2025, at the age of 81.
He said he joins the government and people of Plateau State in mourning the loss of a man he said was a notable figure in both military and political spheres.
In his tribute, President Tinubu extended heartfelt condolences to Useni’s family, friends, military colleagues, and political associates.
He recognised Useni’s extensive contributions to Nigeria, highlighting his roles as a former Governor of old Bendel State, Minister of Transport, and Quarter-Master General of the Nigerian Army.
“Lieutenant-General Useni demonstrated courage and dedication throughout his military career,” President Tinubu stated.
“His commitment to service not only protected our nation but also inspired many young officers to prioritize national interests above personal gain.”
This emphasis on selflessness and dedication to the country resonates deeply within the military community and serves as a guiding principle for future generations.
The President also acknowledged Useni’s impact on Nigerian politics, where he served as deputy national chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and as a senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District.
He said Useni’s leadership in these capacities contributed significantly to the political landscape of Nigeria.
President Tinubu prayed that God Almighty grants Lieutenant-General Useni’s soul eternal rest and provides solace to his grieving family during this difficult time.
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, in mourning of Usani described it as the “fall of one of the biggest trees in the forest of Nigeria” saying that the retired Army General will be missed by all.
Reacting to the death of Useni through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the Minister said the late General was a leader Nigerians will never forget for helping to develop the FCT when he served as the Minister between 1993 and 1998.
“From joining the Army at the age of 14, to becoming the Military Governor of the defunct Bendel State, Minister of Transport, Quarter-Master General of the Nigeria Army, FCT Minister and Senator for the Plateau South of Plateau State, Lt. General Jeremiah Timbut Useni, can be said to be among those Nigerians who saw it all and lived a life of service to the country.
“He was a jolly good fellow, fondly called ‘Jerry Boy,’ who took service to the people as his number one priority.
“Nigerians, especially the Tarok people of Plateau State will never forget the late General for epitomising great virtues.
“He will be sorely missed by the entire people of Plateau State, Nigerian Armed Forces and Nigerians in general.
“On behalf of myself and residents of the FCT, I mourn the departure of General Jeremiah Timbut Oseni, a great man, a Patriot, a fine military officer, a Politician, a Peacemaker and a man of faith in the Almighty God.
“May his soul rest in peace”, Wike said.
Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, also commiserates with the friends, families and associates of a Useni.
The minister in a statement signed on Friday by her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Jonathan Eze, also condoled with the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, and regretted that Nigerians would miss the wisdom and guide of the elder statesman.
“It is with profound sadness that I, on behalf of the Ministry of Women Affairs mourn the passing of Lt. General Jeremiah Timbut Useni, a distinguished elder statesman, former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District in 2015, and a renowned military officer, leaving an irreplaceable void in the lives of his family, friends, and the nation as a whole.
“General Useni’s exemplary leadership and steadfast commitment to service have left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s security and political landscape. His tireless efforts to promote peace and security, particularly in Northern Nigeria and Plateau State, will forever be remembered.
“Throughout his illustrious career, General Useni served Nigeria with distinction in various capacities, including as Minister of Transport, Quarter-Master General of the Nigerian Army, and Minister of the FCT.
“I extend my deepest sympathies to the Plateau State Governor, the Nigerian Armed Forces, General Useni’s immediate family, and all those mourning the loss of this remarkable individual.
“May God grant us the strength and fortitude to bear this tremendous loss, and may His divine presence comfort and provide solace in the days ahead.”