President Bola Tinubu yesterday joined the government and people of Plateau State in mourning the passing on Thursday, of a former minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lt-Gen. Jeremiah Timbut Useni.
The president in a statement by issued his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, extended heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, military colleagues and political associates of the former governor of old Bendel State, minister of transport and Quarter-Master General of the Nigerian Army.
Tinubu said Useni demonstrated courage and dedication throughout his military career and inspired many young officers to prioritise national interest above personal gains.
The president stated that the late Useni also made some difference in politics as deputy national chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District.
He prayed that God Almighty grants Useni’s soul eternal rest and solace for his family.
Also, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, expressed profound sadness at the passing of his predecessor, describing his death as the “fall of one of the biggest trees in the forest of Nigeria.”
Wike emphasised that Useni would be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In a statement released through his senior special assistant on public communications and social media, Lere Olayinka, the minister celebrated Gen. Useni’s significant contributions to Nigeria, particularly his tenure as FCT minister from 1993 to 1998.
He noted that Useni was instrumental in the development of the capital.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, on behalf of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), mourned the passing of the former minister in a statement by the director media in his office, Segun Imohiosen.
He described Useni as one of the quintessential Army Generals whose selfless sacrifice in promoting the nation’s peace and unity would remain indelible in the sands of time, urging younger military officers to imitate his enviable track records.
Sen. Akume eulogised the unwavering determination of the late military icon to serve his people and the nation at large which led to his transition to politics and serving as senator.
He commiserated with the government and people of Plateau State, his immediate family and prayed to God to grant his soul eternal repose.
A former president of the Senate, David Mark, also expressed profound sadness over the death of Lt. Gen. Useni, describing him as “a hero and a leader of all seasons.”
In a statement yesterday in Abuja by his media adviser, Paul Mumeh, the Mark paid glowing tributes to Gen. Useni, hailing his remarkable contributions to the nation as a soldier, statesman and politician.
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, expressed sympathy to the government and people of Plateau State over the death.
In a condolence message signed by his chief press secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, the governor described the death as a colossal loss to Nigeria and humanity.
He recalled the outstanding commitment and remarkable contributions of the deceased to nation-building during his active service in the military and even after he retired and joined politics.
The governor reiterated that Useni had left a vacuum, especially in northern Nigeria, that only God can fill.
Apex northern socio-cultural group, Arewa Consultative Forum, also expressed profound sadness over the death.
A statement issued by the national publicity secretary of the forum, Professor Tukur Muhammad -Baba described Lt. Gen. Useni as an amiable man, a quintessential soldier, officer and gentleman, war hero, military administrator, nationalist, minister, distinguished senator, elder statesman, community leader, among other numerous command positions in the Nigerian military and other key national posts he held in his lifetime.
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