ABUJA: Nyesom Wike, the current Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of General Jeremiah Timbut Useni (retd), who once held the same position. Wike referred to Useni’s passing as the “fall of one of the biggest trees in the forest of Nigeria.”

In a statement released by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and social media early Friday morning in Abuja, Wike highlighted that the late Army General would be missed by all.

Wike emphasized Useni’s legacy, noting that he played a crucial role in the FCT’s development during his tenure as Minister from 1993 to 1998 under the late General Sani Abacha’s administration. “Jeremiah Timbut Useni joined the Army at age 14 and went on to serve as the Military Governor of the defunct Bendel State, Minister of Transport, Quarter-Master General of the Nigeria Army, Minister of the FCT, and Senator for Plateau South,” Wike stated. “He exemplified a life devoted to serving the nation.”

Wike fondly remembered Useni, often called ‘Jerry Boy,’ for his dedication to the community. He remarked, “Nigerians, particularly the Tarok people of Plateau State, will always remember him for his embodiment of cherished virtues.”

The minister added that Useni’s absence would be profoundly felt across Plateau State, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and among all Nigerians. “On behalf of myself and the FCT residents, I mourn the loss of General Jeremiah Timbut Useni—a remarkable man, a patriot, an esteemed military officer, a politician, a peace advocate, and a devout believer in Almighty God,” Wike concluded.