Former Heads of State Yakubu Gowon, Ibrahim Babangida, Abdulsalami Abubakar, and former Senate President David Mark have paid heartfelt tributes to the late Professor Jonah Elaigwu, describing him as a patriotic scholar whose intellectual legacy greatly influenced Nigeria’s political and academic space.
At a night of tributes held in Abuja, the dignitaries celebrated the late scholar’s contributions to governance, federalism, and civil-military relations. Professor Elaigwu, a former member of the Presidential Advisory Council, was remembered as a brilliant academic whose works helped shape public policy and deepen understanding of Nigeria’s federal system.
In his tribute delivered by Solomon Asemota (SAN), General Gowon described Elaigwu as an erudite scholar whose loyalty, humility, and love for national unity stood out. “His patriotism, hard work, and resilience defined his life and cemented our relationship since the late 1970s,” Gowon said. He recalled how he first met the late scholar in 1978 through Professor Ishaya Audu and later permitted him to write the book ‘Gowon: The Biography of a Soldier-Statesman’, which chronicled their discussions and friendship.
Former military president Ibrahim Babangida, represented by Adakole Adama, praised the late academic as a man of integrity and intellect whose research and policy advice helped his administration make informed decisions. General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who also sent a message through a representative, said the country had lost one of its finest minds. “Professor Elaigwu’s death has deprived Nigeria of a vast reservoir of wisdom and experience,” he stated.
Former Senate President David Mark, who chaired the event, shared fond memories of their friendship, describing Elaigwu as a man who lived an impactful and exemplary life. He urged Nigerians to reflect on the words of Ecclesiastes 3: “To everything there is a season, a time to be born and a time to die,” noting that the late scholar’s life was one of purpose and service. Justice Ejembi Eko and retired General Chris Garuba also recalled their long-standing friendship with the late professor, describing him as selfless and deeply devoted to the nation’s progress.
Other prominent Nigerians present at the event included former PDP National Chairmen Iyiorchia Ayu and Adamu Muazu, music legend Bongos Ikwue, Senator Suleiman Adokwe, and a representative of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume. They all spoke of Elaigwu’s humility, brilliance, and immense contributions to Nigeria’s political development.