Lt. Gen. Useni laid to rest, Taroh Nation begs for University in his honour.

The remains of the Nigeria retired military officer and politician, Lieutenant General Jeremiah Useni (rtd) has been laid to rest at his home town in Langtang on Saturday amidst several eulogies.

Regardless of political and religious differences many Nigerians gathered to pay tributes to the Late Lt. Gen. Jeremiah Useni, a renowned philanthropist and devote statesman.

Speaking at the funeral service which was held at the Church of Christ in Nations, COCIN, Regional Church Council, RCC, headquarters Langtang, President of the Taroh Nation, Prof. Nanpon Sheni noted that two of the desires of the late Useni were not fulfilled before his demise.

According to Prof. Sheni, Late Lieutenant General Jeremiah Useni desired a University in Langtang but that desire was cut short by death. Secondly, he revealed that Lt. Gen. Useni also desired that the Taroh Nation have a substantive traditional ruler, (Ponzhi Tarok), but that too was not actualized before his demise.

He appealed that as a mark of honour, these desires of the deceased should be fulfilled.

The Nigeria President, Bola Tinubu, at the funeral service, eulogized the late Useni’s unwavering commitment to national development and humanitarian services across the country.

Represented by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, President Tinubu condoled with the Taroh Nation and all Nigerians as he said the late Useni dedicated his life for the good of the citizens and the nation. Notable among his services according to the President was his role in promoting peace, unity and development of Nigeria during his military era and political leadership.

Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, described the late Lt. Gen. Jeremiah Useni as symbol of hope, generosity, and service to the nation.

He emphasized the need for genuine reconciliation among the people of Plateau State, urging citizens to embrace unity, as taught by God, to foster peace, progress, and harmony in the state and to honour the remarkable legacy of Gen. Useni.

Gov. Mutfwang quoted the book of Ecclesiastes 7:8, where it says “The end of a matter is better than its beginning”, and revealed that Lt. Gen. Useni spent the later years of his life seeking reconciliation and fostering peace, an example he encouraged all to follow.

Reflecting on Gen. Useni’s legacy, Governor Mutfwang lauded his steadfast dedication to national unity, stability, and the development of Plateau State. He emphasized that while all humans have imperfections, the late General demonstrated the virtue of reconciliation and forgiveness in his final years.

“It is impossible for human beings not to offend one another, but it is a virtue to know the right time to let go, the right time to reconcile, and the right time to forgive. If we talk about unity, there can be no unity without forgiveness, and there can be no unity without reconciliation. True reconciliation with anyone begins with God,” the Governor stated.

Governor Mutfwang prayed God to instill in Plateau State and Nigeria a spirit of reconciliation, so that citizens may work together for collective progress and well-being. He expressed confidence that God would bring about a new era of peace and development in Plateau State.

Performing the funeral rites, COCIN President, Rev. Dr. Amos Mohzo, read 1 Peter 1:24-25, he said everything will fade away, but the word of the Lord remains forever. He said the Church of Christ in Nations, COCIN joined the multitude of mourners to bid farewell to a great statesman.

He described the deceased as a man with uncommon generosity and a passionate supporter of the gospel.

Rev. Dr. Mohzo noted that late Lt. Gen. Useni was more than a public servant, but a servant of God who dedicated his life in serving God and humanity. Adding that he was a pillar in the Church, as he used his resources and influence to promote the gospel.

In a sermon, the guest preacher, Bishop Josiah Fearon spoke on relationship and mercy, noting that the late Useni was a man of mercy, who doesn’t judge but chooses mercy above all. He added that Useni gave a listening ear to people with problems and desired to meet the needs of those who came to him.

He admonished politicians to listen to their constituents, as knowing their needs will give them a better perspective on how best to address their yearnings.

“General Useni’s life is a testament to the idea that a good leader listens and responds to the challenges of the people.” He reminded them that their positions are not just privileges but responsibilities to be delivered with integrity.

Late Lieutenant General Jeremiah Useni was later laid to rest at his family burial ground, near the grave of his late wife and son, after a military performance in his honour.