SDP Leadership Visits Jeremiah Useni’s Family, Extol His Virtues

The Presidential Candidate of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, in the 2023 General election, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has described the Late Lt.-Gen. Jeremiah Useni as an angel in army uniform who touched many lives.

Prince Adebayo stated this when he led members of the party on a condolence visit to Useni’s family in Abuja.

Adebayo, who praised Useni’s lifelong service, stressed that he was devoted to justice and helping people, regardless of political, religious, or ethnic background.

He said that Useni, who served as Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister during the military rule, always prioritised humanity.

He credited Useni for making Abuja a city for the people, noting that he allocated land to small traders and relocated, rather than demolishing homes in disadvantaged areas.

“During military rule, he transformed Abuja into the city of the people. Politicians today must ensure it remains a city for the people, not just the government,” Adebayo said.

Adebayo, who highlighted Useni’s role in uniting Nigeria from 1966, recalled a crucial moment in 1998 when Useni remained professional despite political pressure.

He noted that when the Nigerian Head of State died in 1998, Useni was the most senior officer but did not politicise the situation or seek personal advantage.

On his part, the SDP National Chairman, Shehu Gabam, described Useni as a great leader with an outstanding legacy.

He described his death as a national loss and praised his simplicity and patriotism.

“At 30, every Nigerian knew his name. We never heard negative things about him, only positive reports, Gabam added.”

Responding on behalf of the family, Useni’s first child, Mrs Julcit Bali, expressed gratitude to the SDP leadership for their visit and their kind words about her father.

She described her father as deeply generous.

“Baba was not just a father to us but to many. Even in the hospital, he still gave to others.”

The late Jeremiah Useni passed away on Jan. 23 at the age of 82.

By Georgina Humphrey