A former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Jeremiah Useni, has passed away at the age of 82.
His death was confirmed by Governor Caleb Mutfwang in a statement on Thursday.
Governor Mutfwang revealed that Useni, who also represented Plateau South Senatorial District between 2015 and 2019, died after a prolonged illness.
Useni had served as the FCT Minister under the dictatorship of General Sani Abacha.
In his statement, Governor Mutfwang described Useni’s passing as a significant loss to the people of Plateau. He extended his condolences to Useni’s immediate family, the state’s residents, and the Tarok nation, urging them to find comfort in God during this difficult time.
On behalf of the state, Mutfwang also offered condolences to the President and the Nigerian Armed Forces, recognizing Useni’s distinguished contributions to the nation. He called on the family and loved ones to take solace in God’s support.
Useni had a distinguished military career, serving as the Minister of Transport and Quarter-Master General of the Nigerian Army, among other roles. After retiring from the military, he entered politics, becoming the deputy chairman of the defunct All Nigeria Peoples Party and later a senator. In 2019, he was the governorship candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party in Plateau State.
“On behalf of my family, the government, and the peace-loving people of Plateau, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy to the President, the Armed Forces and Tarok nation over the loss of this distinguished elder statesman.
“I wish to also extend my condolences to his immediate family and relations. I call on them to take solace in God in this trying time,” the Plateau governor said.