Dignitaries at the Night of Tributes for the late Prof. Elaigwu in Abuja on Friday.(NAN)
It was an evening steeped in emotion, reflection, and reverence as some of Nigeria’s most prominent statesmen and academics gathered in Abuja to honour the memory of late Professor Jonah Isawa Elaigwu — a revered political scientist, patriot, and mentor to many.
Former Heads of State, Generals Yakubu Gowon and Ibrahim Babangida (rtd), as well as ex-Senate Presidents David Mark and Iyorchia Ayu, were among those who paid glowing tributes at a commemorative Night of Tributes held in his honour.
Described by many as a “national intellectual treasure,” Prof. Elaigwu was until his passing the President of the Institute of Governance and Social Research (IGSR) and Professor Emeritus of Political Science at the University of Jos.
General Ibrahim Babangida, represented at the event by Ambassador Godwin Adakole, recalled Prof. Elaigwu’s instrumental role during his administration.
> “When I had the privilege of leading our nation, Prof. Elaigwu was one of those I invited to serve on the Presidential Advisory Committee, which broadened the intellectual base of our policy framework,” he said.
“He became an invaluable resource in matters of federalism, political science and democratic experimentation. His passing is a huge loss to the nation and the academic community.”
General Gowon, whose message was delivered by legal luminary Solomon Asemota (SAN), praised the late scholar’s unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s federal structure, noting his significant influence through research, policy engagement, and thought leadership.
Similarly, former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, represented by Ambassador Nicholas Ella, described Prof. Elaigwu as “a patriotic academic” who served with distinction at Ahmadu Bello University and later, the University of Jos.
> “I found him a courageous and very dedicated educationist who gave all his life in serving his country Nigeria, and humanity,” Abubakar said.
Senator Iyorchia Ayu offered a deeply personal tribute, recalling his early professional encounters with Prof. Elaigwu at the University of Jos, where they both served as pioneer staff.
> “Prof. Elaigwu was a towering intellectual who lived for scholarship, truth and service to humanity,” Ayu noted.
“He was globally recognised for his work on comparative federalism and civil–military relations. His integrity and dedication shaped generations of scholars across Nigeria’s ethnic and religious spectrum.”
Senator David Mark, reflecting on his youthful admiration for the late professor, described him as “a beacon of light and a pathfinder.”
> “He was not just a classroom academic; he was a visionary thinker, who dedicated his life to the pursuit of a just and inclusive society. His passing is a monumental loss, not just to the academia, but to the entire nation.”
A moving highlight of the evening was a performance by music legend Bongos Ikwue, who paid his respects through timeless melodies that drew heartfelt applause.
> “Prof. Elaigwu was not only a great mind but a kind soul who believed in the power of music and dialogue to build unity,” Ikwue shared, reflecting on their long-standing friendship.
The gathering drew a diverse mix of political leaders, scholars, protégés, and associates, all united in celebrating a man whose ideas shaped policy, strengthened democracy, and inspired nation-building.
Born in 1948, Prof. Jonah Isawa Elaigwu’s legacy spans decades of teaching, research, and advisory roles to various Nigerian administrations. Recognised globally for his scholarship in federalism and governance, his impact resonates far beyond academic circles.
As voices from across generations echoed through the tribute night, one thing became abundantly clear — Prof. Elaigwu may have passed on, but the ideas he championed and the lives he touched will continue to shape Nigeria’s journey for years to come.
NAN
