The leadership of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has paid tribute to the late Lieutenant-General Jeremiah Timbut Useni, describing his death as a great loss to Nigeria.
The party’s National Chairman, Shehu Gabam, led a delegation, including the SDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, on a condolence visit to the former FCT Minister’s residence in Abuja on yesterday.
Speaking during the visit, Mr. Gabam described General Useni as a patriot who served Nigeria with distinction.
“We lost a great man, a patriot, an excellent leader. Someone who has been tested and has served this country with dedication. We owe it to him, as a father of the nation, to come together and sympathize with his family,” he said.
He noted that the country has only a few individuals of General Useni’s calibre remaining and emphasized the need for younger generations to appreciate the sacrifices made by past leaders in nation-building.
“Many people today do not fully understand what leaders like him went through to keep Nigeria together. It is important to educate the younger generation on the efforts and struggles of those who came before them,” he added.
General Useni, a former military governor and minister, was widely regarded as a key figure in Nigeria’s history. He played significant roles in various political and military capacities, including serving as a senator.
Reflecting on his political career, Mr. Gabam said: “His political influence cannot be ignored, even though he was a military officer. As the presidential candidate has noted, you cannot write the history of the FCT without mentioning General Useni. He transformed Abuja into a place for all Nigerians, ensuring inclusivity in land allocation and development.”
Mr. Gabam further highlighted General Useni’s impact on Plateau State and his home community, describing him as a “pan-Nigerian” who touched the lives of many.
Prince Adewole Adebayo, the SDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, also paid tribute, describing General Useni as a father figure.
“I used to visit him at this house while he was alive. In honor of his memory, there will be no political discussions here until after his burial,” he said.
He acknowledged General Useni’s contributions to Nigeria’s political and military history, spanning from the 1966 coup to his years in the Senate.
“General Useni saw all Nigerians as his own. In the army, he treated his colleagues as brothers. In politics, he served his community selflessly. As FCT Minister, he ensured that Abuja was accessible to both the rich and the poor,” Mr. Adebayo stated.
The SDP delegation emphasized that they had come not for political reasons but to show their respect for a man whose legacy will not be forgotten.
