The Social Democratic Party (SDP), led by its 2023 presidential candidate, Prince Adewale Adebayo, has paid glowing tributes to the late General Jeremiah Useni, describing him as more than just a soldier but a symbol of justice, compassion, and leadership.
During a condolence visit to the Useni family in Maitama, Abuja, over the weekend, Adebayo shared heartfelt stories that underscored the General’s unique legacy as a military officer who wielded power with integrity and humanity.
“It’s rare to find an angel in army uniform, but that’s what General Useni was,” Adebayo stated. He recounted the General’s calm approach to crisis situations, particularly during a tense period in Ife, where, instead of resorting to violence, Useni simply displayed the bullets in his possession and made it clear he had no desire to use them. “That’s all it took—the troublemakers dispersed peacefully,” Adebayo noted, illustrating the General’s philosophy of peace over aggression.
Beyond his military service, General Useni’s tenure as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) earned him the nickname “The People’s General.” Adebayo praised Useni’s inclusive approach to governance, emphasizing how he prioritized the well-being of everyday Nigerians.
“Whether you were selling chewing gum or yams, he found space for you in Abuja. He didn’t demolish homes recklessly; he relocated people with dignity,” Adebayo said, highlighting Useni’s efforts to transform the capital into a city for all, not just the elite.
Adebayo also shared a recent conversation with the General, just weeks before his passing. Despite his declining health, Useni remained focused on offering wisdom and encouragement. “When I told him I was running for president, he didn’t care whether he knew me personally. He said, ‘Think of the country first. If you don’t get it, don’t make trouble. In my time, I let it be, and in God’s time, you will get it.’”
Useni’s military career spanned critical periods in Nigeria’s history—from the 1966 coup to the transition to democracy in the late 1990s. Despite opportunities to seize power, Useni consistently chose stability over personal ambition. “Weaker men would have politicized it,” Adebayo noted, “but Useni accepted the will of God and prioritized the nation’s unity.”
SDP National Chairman, Shehu Gabam, echoed Adebayo’s sentiments, describing Useni as “a soldier who wore justice like a uniform.” Gabam highlighted Useni’s unwavering commitment to fairness and his ability to lead with compassion in an era often marred by authoritarianism.
“General Useni was more than a soldier; he was a unifier, a peacemaker, and a man whose life was defined by integrity,” Gabam stated. He revisited the Ife crisis, emphasizing how Useni’s peaceful approach to conflict resolution was emblematic of his leadership style. “His words carried more weight than any weapon. He didn’t seek to intimidate but to persuade through logic and empathy.”
Gabam also reflected on Useni’s time as FCT Minister, where he ensured equitable treatment for all residents, regardless of their social status. “Abuja was not just a city for the elite under his watch. Whether you were a street vendor or a landowner, he made sure everyone had a place,” Gabam remarked.
Useni’s political wisdom extended beyond his military and ministerial roles. Gabam recalled how the General offered him similar advice when he shared his political aspirations: “Think of Nigeria first. If you don’t succeed, don’t cause trouble. Trust in God’s timing.”
Throughout his career, General Useni demonstrated that true leadership lies in restraint and service. Gabam emphasized that while many saw opportunities for personal gain during times of political upheaval, Useni remained steadfast in his commitment to peace and democracy.
“Where others saw a chance to seize power, he saw a duty to protect the nation’s unity,” Gabam said. “His life is a testament to the fact that true power lies not in domination, but in justice and compassion.”
General Useni’s influence was felt far beyond the barracks and government offices. His legacy serves as a reminder that leadership is not about wielding authority for personal benefit but about serving the people with integrity and humility.
“We will miss him dearly,” Gabam concluded, “but his spirit will continue to guide us as we strive to build a Nigeria that reflects the values he lived and died for.”
Responding on behalf of the family, Mrs. Julcit Bali, General Useni’s first daughter, described her father as “a giver to a fault,” recalling how he continued to support others even while on his hospital bed. “His life was one of selfless service, and we are grateful for the love and respect shown to him by so many,” she said.
As the nation mourns the passing of General Jeremiah Useni, his life remains a beacon of justice, compassion, and leadership, leaving an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history and future.