President Bola Tinubu on Friday joined the government and people of Plateau State in mourning the passing of a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Lieutenant-General Jeremiah Useni (retd.).
The elder statesman died on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at the age of 82, following a protracted illness.
Tinubu extended 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.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, conveyed this condolences in a statement signed Friday titled ‘President Tinubu mourns the passing of former minister of FCT, Lt. Gen. Jeremiah Useni.’
It read in part, “President Tinubu says Useni demonstrated courage and dedication throughout his military career and inspired many young officers to prioritise national interests above personal gain.
“The President states that the late Useni also made some difference in politics as deputy national chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party and senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District.”
The President prayed that God Almighty will grant Lieutenant-General Useni’s soul eternal rest and solace for his family.
On Thursday night, Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, announced Useni’s passing.
In a statement in Jos, Mutfwang described the passing of General Useni as a tremendous loss not only to his immediate family but also to the Nigerian Armed Forces, Plateau State, and the entire nation.
The governor highlighted General Useni’s exemplary leadership and steadfast commitment to service, which left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s security and political landscape.
After retiring from the military, Useni transitioned into politics, where he continued his service to the nation.
He served as Deputy Chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party and was elected Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District in 2015 under the People’s Democratic Party.
The governor commended Useni’s life of selfless service, saying “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.”
