Political figures, family members, and friends gathered at the First Baptist Church in Garki, Abuja, on Wednesday to honor the late Senator Jonathan Zwingina, who passed away on October 3, just weeks after celebrating his 70th birthday.
He was lauded for his integrity, excellence, and substantial contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development. The commendation service featured heartfelt tributes from dignitaries who shared fond memories of the former Senate Majority Leader.
The late lawmaker’s first son, Kabrh, reflected on his father’s final moments, sharing that he found peace before his passing.
Kabrh said, “I want to give a testimony about his last moments. I called Reverend Tom and said we should meet at the hospital, when we got there, we felt things were off. So, he (Reverend Tom) led us in prayers of salvation, and forgiveness, and right after that barely 20 seconds later, my dad passed.”
Former Minister of Information, Professor Jerry Gana, described Zwingina as a visionary and excellent leader.
“This is a very shocking departure,” Gana said, recalling the recent celebration of Zwingina’s 70th birthday.
“I spoke on that day (Zwingina’s birthday) on behalf of friends and colleagues, not knowing our dear friend would leave us so soon.
“Senator Zwingina lived a life of tremendous impact, a life of integrity.
“He was always ahead of his colleagues with his tremendous capacity to think and lead with initiative.”
Gana also emphasized Zwingina’s contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape, especially during the early years of the Peoples Democratic Party.
“He was very close to me when we worked together to restore democracy. He was a leader of thoughts and actions,” Gana added.
He further highlighted Zwingina’s dedication to excellence, stating, “Your father, your husband, was a man of honour, integrity, and ideas. He lived a life of excellence, and we are proud of him.”
Former Senate President Ken Nnamani echoed these sentiments, praising Zwingina’s sharp intellect and memory, which earned him the nickname “encyclopedia” during his time in the Senate.
He said, “I found Zwingina to be someone with impeccable memory.
“He was the Ronaldo, or if you like, Messi, of the Constitutional Amendments debates. He has a knack of remembering things. His departure is a big loss to Adamawa state and the entire country.”
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, delivered an emotional tribute, reflecting on his long-standing friendship with Zwingina.
“Our paths crossed during our university days, and we remained close ever since,” he said.
“He was a towering figure in the politics of Adamawa State. His wisdom and capacity will be a legacy for future generations. At his 70th birthday, he didn’t show any sign that he would be leaving us so soon.”
Similarly, former Plateau State Governor Jonah Jang affirmed that Zwingina was a man of excellence.
He stated, “I have known Zwingina for over 40 years. I first met him when I was the military governor of Gongola State, and we appointed him as the Director General of Mass Mobilization for Self Reliance, Social Justice, and Economic Recovery. We have remained friends from then till now.
“He was a very hardworking and intelligent man.”
Former Senate President Adolphus Wabara also paid tribute, describing Zwingina as a true Nigerian.
“We worked together in true harmony; he was a true Nigerian. I never knew he was from the North. I know that he is in the bosom of the Lord,” he said.
Reverend Israel Akanji, President of the Baptist Convention, also spoke, praising Zwingina’s contributions to the church during his time as a pastor at the First Baptist Church, Garki, Abuja. He shared several examples of Zwingina’s dedication and generosity towards the work of God.
The service was attended by notable figures, including Honorable Dr. Aliyu Hong, former Minister of State for Health; former SGF Babachir Lawal; former Senate President David Mark; Rt. Honourable James Barka, former Speaker of Adamawa State; Honorable Aminu Umar, a former member of the Taraba State House of Assembly; Honorable Frank Nweke Jr.; Senator Binta Garba; and Mr. Kayode Komolafe, representative of the MKO Abiola Hope ’93 Campaign.
Other attendees included Senator Tunde Ogbeha, former Senator from Kogi State; former Deputy Governor of Gombe State, Tha’anda Rubainu; former Edo State Governor, Senator Oserheimen Osunbor; Labaran Maku, ex-Minister of Information; Senator Ugochukwu Uba; Senator Patrick Ndubueze; and Senator Udo Udoma, former Minister of the Federal Republic.
