From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed sadness over the loss of its former Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairman, Gen. Jeremiah Timbut Useni, who died on Thursday, aged 81.
This was contained in a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary of the forum, Prof. T. A. Muhammad-Baba, and made available to the media in Kaduna, yesterday.
The statement stated that the easily amiable late Lt. General Useni was a quintessential soldier, officer and gentleman, war hero, military administrator, nationalist, severally Minister of Transport, and also the Federal Capital Territory.
He was also a distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic, elder statesman, and community leader in his home state of Plateau, among other numerous command positions in the Nigerian Military and other key national posts he had held in his life and times. In all his outings, the late General gave his all.
“Lt. General Useni was also a one-time Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BOT) of ACF (2009 – 2014), in which role he was a progressive and inclusive leader. For these sacrifices to Nigeria, the late Lt. General certainly deserves to be mourned as one of the architects of modern Nigeria.
“As the nation awaits the announcement of funeral obsequies by the family, ACF extends its condolences to his family and friends, colleagues in the military (serving and retired), as well as the Government and peoples of the Plateau State.”
Similarly, the former Deputy Speaker of Kaduna State, Rt. Hon. Nuhu Goroh Shadalafiya has mourned the passing away of the late General, describing his death as a significant loss to his family, the Nigerian Armed Forces, Plateau State, and the entire country.
Shadalafiya, who stated this in a statement titled: “To a Selfless Icon, Lt. Gen. Dr.Chiet JT Useni,” acknowledged his uncommon leadership prowess and capacity, recalling that as a leader, he inspired people to strive for excellence and values of compassion, integrity, and kindness.
According to Shadalafiya, who is the current Chairman of the Legislative Service Commission, Kaduna State, the late General provided a nurturing environment filled with wisdom, patience, and understanding.
“Your unwavering dedication, guidance, and love have left an indelible mark on our lives. As a leader, you inspired us to strive for excellence and embody the values of compassion, integrity, and kindness.
“As a father, you provided a nurturing environment, filled with wisdom, patience, and understanding. Your presence was a constant source of comfort, reassurance, and strength.
“As a mentor, you shared your wealth of knowledge, experience, and insights, empowering us to grow, learn, and thrive. Your generosity of spirit, time, and resources has been a blessing to countless individuals.
“Your legacy is a testament to the transformative power of selfless leadership, unconditional love, and mentorship. We honor your memory, celebrate your life, and strive to emulate your exceptional qualities.
“Rest in peace, dear leader, father, and mentor. Your impact will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come”, he stated.
