JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
Former Nigerian Heads of State, General Yakubu Gowon and General Ibrahim Babangida (rtd), former Senate Presidents, Senator David Mark and Iyorchia Ayu, have extolled the virtues of the late Professor Jonah Isawa-Elaigwu.
They spoke about this during a night of tributes held on Friday evening in Abuja in honor of the late erudite scholar and professor of political science.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that until his demise, Elaigwu was president of the Institute of Governance and Social Research (IGSR) and professor emeritus (political science) of the University of Jos.
Elder statesmen described the late Prof. Elaigwu as a patriot, mentor and intellectual giant, whose works shaped Nigeria’s political thought and governance.
In his message, Babangida described the late Elaigwu as a “national intellectual resource” whose insights enriched Nigeria’s governance and reform processes.
Babangida, represented by Amb. Godwin Adakole, said the deceased contributed greatly to national politics through his membership in the Presidential Advisory Committee during his administration.
“When I had the privilege of leading our nation, Prof. Elaigwu was one of those I invited to join the Presidential Advisory Committee, which expanded the intellectual basis of our policy framework,” Babangida said.
“He has become an invaluable resource on federalism, political science, and democratic experimentation. His passing is a tremendous loss to the nation and the academic community,” he added.
Gowon, represented by Mr Solomon Asemota (SAN), in his tribute commended the late academic for his immense contributions to strengthening Nigeria’s federal structure through research, advocacy and consultancy engagements.
Furthermore, former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, represented by Amb. Nicholas Ella, the immediate past Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, commended the late Elaigwu.
“The late Prof. Elaigwu was patriotic and served with distinction at both Ahmadu Bello University and the University of Jos.
“I found him to be a courageous and very dedicated educator who gave his entire life in the service of his country, Nigeria, and humanity,” Abubakar said.
Senator Ayu described the late Elaigwu as a towering intellectual, mentor and patriotic Nigerian, who lived for scholarship, truth and service to humanity.
Ayu recalled her early interactions with the deceased, whom she considered an elder brother and colleague, noting that they both served as pioneer staff members of the University of Jos.
“Prof. Elaigwu was an exceptionally hard-working and erudite scholar. He valued excellence and integrity and had students who transcended Nigeria’s ethnic and religious divides.
“He was a global authority on comparative federalism and civil-military relations, recognized internationally for his works and writings.
“Beyond academia, he has influenced public policy with the goal of improving lives,” Ayu added.
In his tribute, Mark said Elaigwu’s passing was “a monumental loss, not only to academia, but to the entire nation.”
Mark recalled that, as a young man, he often visited the Elaigwu family home and grew up admiring the late professor’s intellect, discipline and warmth.
He said Elaigwu embodied the best ideals of scholarship and patriotism, combining academic excellence with a passion for national unity and justice.
“Prof. Elaigwu was a pioneer, a beacon of light and a towering figure, whose ideas helped shape Nigeria’s national development and inspired generations of scholars,” Mark said.
“He was not just a classy academic; he was a visionary thinker, who dedicated his life to the pursuit of a just and inclusive society.
“His works have gone beyond the walls of the university, shaping governance and Nigeria’s quest for unity and stability,” he added.
Other dignitaries, including political associates, academics and former students, described the late professor as a humble leader, who combined scholarship with public service and moral excellence.
The highlight of the evening was the music of veteran singer, Bongos Ikwue, who delighted the crowd with some of his evergreen hit songs, eliciting emotional applause from the audience.
Ikwue, reflecting on his friendship with the late professor, said: “Professor Elaigwu was not only a great mind but a kind soul who believed in the power of music and dialogue to build unity.
“His legacy will continue to live in the hearts of all who knew him.”
Family praise
In their tribute, Prof Elaigwu’s family described him as a man of “unwavering strength, boundless love and profound wisdom”.
In an emotional tribute to the late academic, Victoria Elaigwu, she said their father was an “experienced international scholar who mentored several younger scholars”.
“He taught us the values of hard work, integrity and compassion, leading by example in all he did. His legacy is one of patriotism, resilience, kindness and unyielding love.
“We will carry his memory in our hearts forever,” he said.
Born in 1948, Prof. Elaigwu has worked as a teacher, researcher and advisor to successive governments in Nigeria.
He was recognized globally for his expertise in federalism, political stability and democratic governance. (NAN)
