By Winnie Onu, Makurdi
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State among other dignitaries paid tributes to late Professor Jonah Isawa-Elaigwu, who passed away on July 22, in Jos, Plateau State.
Alia in a condolence message at Professor Elaigwu’s funeral service in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State on Friday described the deceased as “illustrious son” of the state and “a tall figure in the academic world.”
He noted that the famed professor of political science made his mark in nation building through “teaching, research, public lectures and publications.”
“We will remember him for his integrity, intellectual brilliance, and commitment to the unity of our nation,” the governor said.
Similarly, the deputy governor of the state, Dr Sam Ode, represented by the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Edeh Ogwuche, said the deceased left an indelible mark in the academia, “shaping minds and informing policies rooted in justice, equity and altruism.”
“As a distinguished scholar of political science and international relations, his voice resonated in academic halls, policy fora, inspiring countless individuals to pursue excellence, integrity, and service,” Dr Ode said.
In his funeral oration, the deputy governor recalled the late scholar’s contribution in bridging the gap between the tiers of government aimed at deepening federalism.
As Professor Elaigwu’s casket laid at the Isawa Memorial Academy at Otukpo, a high school he founded as symbol of his legacy in knowledge production, the immediate-past deputy governor of Benue, Engr Benson Abounu, said the late academic inspired him and generations of scholars to pursue their dreams.
“We were looking up to Professor Elaigwu because of his academic brilliance. He contributed to the development of federalism in Nigeria, particularly during the military government of President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida,” he recalled.
The officiating minister at the funeral service, the Archbishop of the Methodist Church in Benue State, the Most Reverend Joshua Ngbede, urged Christians to imbibe the virtues of love and forgiveness which Christ embodied.
The cleric lauded Professor Elaigwu for his life of service and integrity as he urged mourners and sympathisers at the funeral service to recommit their lives to the promotion of peace and development of Nigeria.
The deceased professor born in 1948 served as a teacher, researcher, and adviser to successive governments in Nigeria.
