President Bola Tinubu on Friday expressed his condolences to the government and citizens of Plateau State upon the death of a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lieutenant-General Jeremiah Useni (retd.).
Naija News reports that the distinguished elder statesman passed away on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at the age of 82, after a prolonged illness.
Tinubu offered his sympathies to the family, friends, military associates, and political colleagues of the former Governor of old Bendel State, who also served as Minister of Transport and Quarter-Master General of the Nigerian Army.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, communicated this message of condolence in a statement released on 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 prioritize 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 expressed his hope that God Almighty will grant eternal rest to the soul of Lieutenant-General Useni and provide comfort to his family.
On Thursday evening, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State announced the death of Useni.
In a statement issued in Jos, Mutfwang characterized the loss of General Useni as a significant blow not only to his family but also to the Nigerian Armed Forces, Plateau State, and the nation as a whole.
The governor emphasized General Useni’s outstanding leadership and unwavering dedication to service, which made a lasting impact on Nigeria’s security and political framework.
Following his retirement from the military, Useni entered the political arena, where he continued to serve his country.
He held the position of Deputy Chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party and was elected as Senator for Plateau South Senatorial District in 2015 under the banner of 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.”