The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has reacted to the death of former FCT Minister, Lt. General Jeremiah Timbut Useni, describing his passing as “the fall of one of the biggest trees in the forest of Nigeria”.
TheNewsGuru reports that Wike in a statement issued on Friday through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, noted that Useni’s contributions to the nation’s development will never be forgotten.
Wike while paying tribute to Useni’s legacy, highlighted his role in shaping the FCT during his tenure as Minister from 1993 to 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,” Wike stated.
He described the deceased as “a jolly good fellow, fondly called ‘Jerry Boy,’ who took service to the people as his number one priority”.
He added that Nigerians, particularly the Tarok people of Plateau State, will always cherish the late General’s exemplary virtues.
“On behalf of myself and residents of the FCT, I mourn the departure of General Useni—a great man, a patriot, a fine military officer, a politician, a peacemaker, and a man of deep faith. He will be sorely missed by the people of Plateau State, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the nation at large,” Wike said.
Wike noted that Lt. General Useni, known for his distinguished military and political career, left behind a legacy of dedication and service that will be remembered across Nigeria.
He prayed for the late General’s soul to rest in peace.