FROM SOLDIER TO STATESMAN: GENERAL “JERRY BOY” TIMBUT USENI SHOWED CLASS
BY PROF. MIKE A.A. OZEKHOME, SAN, CON, OFR, FCIArb, LL.D.
INTRODUCTION
The passing of Lt. General Jeremiah Timbut Useni at the ripe age of 81 marks the end of a golden era of a scion of the Langtang people and a patriot of Nigeria. A distinguished officer and gentleman soldier, astute administrator and dedicated public servant, Useni’s life is a loud testament to national service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the development of his people and Nigeria. His contributions to the nation, spanning military, political, legislative and administrative spheres, have left an indelible mark on the country’s history. As we mourn his departure, we also celebrate the legacy of a man who served his nation with honour, dignity, integrity and distinction.
GEN. USENI’S EARLY LIFE AND MILITARY CAREER
Jeremiah Timbut Useni was born on the 16th day of February, 1943, in Langtang, Plateau State, Nigeria. He joined the Nigerian Army in 1960, at a time the nation was on the cusp of independence. His military career was marked by sheer discipline, dedication and rapid ascension through the ranks. Gen. Useni’s leadership qualities and strategic acumen earned him the respect of his juniors, peers and superiors alike. He served in various capacities within the military, including appointment as the Military Governor of the defunct Bendel State (now Edo and Delta States) from 1984 to 1985. This was during the military regime of Major General Muhammadu Buhari who later became a Nigerian president (2015- 2023).
As Military Governor, Useni was known for his pragmatic approach to governance. He focused on infrastructure development, education, and healthcare, laying the foundation for the progress of the region. His tenure was characterized by a no-nonsense attitude towards corruption and inefficiency, earning him respect and the admiration of the people he served.
TRANSFORMING THE FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY (FCT), ABUJA AS MINISTER
One of Gen. Useni’s most notable contributions to Nigeria was his tenure as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) from 1993 to 1998, during the military regime of General Sani Abacha. As the FCT Minister, Useni played a pivotal role in the infrastructural development of Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city. His leadership was instrumental in transforming Abuja from a fledgling city into a modern metropolis. He is credited as the builder of the National Assembly Complex; Apo legislative Quarters; all the Gwarimpa Housing Estates; the Diplomatic Drive; among many other enduring projects.
Under J.T. Useni’s stewardship, significant infrastructure projects were undertaken, including the construction of roads, bridges and public buildings. He prioritized the provision of basic amenities such as water, electricity and sanitation, ensuring that Abuja could function as a viable administrative, commercial and residential hub. Useni’s vision for Abuja was not limited to physical development; he also emphasized the importance of urban planning and clean environmental sustainability. His giant efforts laid the groundwork for the city’s continued growth and development.
HE SURMOUNTED CHALLENGES AS MINISTER OF FCT
Gen. Useni’s tenure as FCT Minister was not without challenges though. The rapid pace of development often led to tensions between indigenous communities and other stakeholders. However, Useni’s ability to navigate these complexities with tact and diplomacy earned him widespread respect and acceptability. His commitment to fairness and equity in handling complex challenges ensured that the interests of all parties concerned were considered and taken care of in the development process.
GEN. USENI’S POLITICAL CAREER
Transitioning from military to civilian governance, General Useni continued his service to Nigeria through active political engagement.
GEN. USENI AS A POLITICAL GLADIATOR
First served as the Deputy Chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP). He later founded the Democratic People’s Party (DPP), where he assumed the role of chairman. His political journey was marked by an uncommon commitment to providing alternative platforms for Nigerians seeking effective representation, rather than relying on the already well known existing parties.
He was also a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and played a significant role in the political landscape of Plateau State. Useni’s political career was defined by his sustained advocacy for good governance, social justice, egalitarianism and the empowerment of vulnerable individuals and marginalized communities.
In 2019, Useni contested the governorship election in Plateau State under the PDP banner. Although he was unsuccessful in the questionable election which he challenged up to the Supreme Court, his campaign had focused on burning issues such as education, healthcare and infrastructure development, reflecting his lifelong commitment to public service. Useni’s foray into politics demonstrated his belief in the power of democracy to bring about positive change. I should know this as his friend and lawyer who fought his electoral battles from the tribunal up to the apex court of the land.
GEN. USENI IN THE RED CHAMBER
In 2015, Gen. Useni was elected as the Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). During his tenure in the Senate, he was recognized for his dedication to his constituents and his valiant efforts to address national issues, reflecting his enduring commitment to public service.
ENDEARING LEGACY AND ACHIEVEMENTS
Lt. General Jeremiah Timbut Useni’s legacy is one of long public service, committed leadership and nation-building. His unquantifiable contributions to Nigeria’s development, particularly in the areas of law-making, infrastructure, urban planning and governance, are a treasure to keep. As Military Governor of the old Bendel State, he laid the foundation for the region’s development and growth. As FCT Minister, he transformed a rural setup Abuja into a modern capital city. And as a politician, he advocated for the rights and welfare of his people.
Gen. Useni’s life was also marked by his uncommon humility which he wore like a second skin; and his dedication to his community. Despite his numerous national achievements, he remained humble and deeply connected to his roots in Plateau State. He was a patron of qualitative and affordable education and a champion of youth and women empowerment. He believed that the future of Nigeria lay in the hands of its young people.
GEN USENI’S LIFE WAS WEL-LIVED
The death of Lt. General Jeremiah Timbut Useni is an irreplaceable loss to the Langtang people, Plateau State and Nigeria in general. He was a man of integrity, vision and unwavering commitment to the development of his people and country. His life serves as an inspiration to all who aspire to serve their nation with honour, dignity and utmost dedication.
THE LIGHT DIMMED:
ADIEU, JERRY BOY
In Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, we are told that (“there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:
a time to be born and a time to die; a time to plant and a time to uproot; a time to kill and a time to heal; a time to tear down and a time to build; a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance; a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them; a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up; a time to keep and a time to throw away; a time to tear and a time to mend; a time to be silent and a time to speak; a time to love and a time to hate; a time for war and a time for peace”).
For Gen. Jeremiah Timbut Useni, his season of transition from mortality has come. As we bid farewell to this remarkable swagger cane-carrying elder statesman who was popularly called Jerry boy, we take solace in the knowledge that his legacy will endure. The infrastructures he built; the institutions he established; and the many lives he touched stand as a monument and testament to his inerasable contributions. Gen. Useni’s life reminds us that true greatness lies in service to others, and his example will continue to guide future generations. Dave Chappelle captured this famously in lyrical poetry when he said, “The mark of greatness is when everything before you is obsolete, and everything after you bears your mark” J. T. Useni perfectly fits into this.
Your life was a gift to Nigeria. Your legacy will forever be etched in the annals of our nation’s history. Rest in perfect peace, Lt. General Jeremiah Timbut Useni. Adieu sir. Farewell, Jerry Boy.