Ex-Military administrator Akaagerger dies at 69

DDM News

Former Military Administrator of Katsina State, Colonel Joseph Iorshagher Akaagerger (rtd), has died at the age of 69.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that Colonel Akaagerger, who served as Katsina’s Military Administrator from August 1998 to May 1999, passed away on Sunday. His death has triggered a wave of grief among political and military circles.

Born on May 5, 1956, Akaagerger hailed from Benue State and pursued a career that straddled the military, law, and politics.

He later served as a Senator representing Benue North East in the National Assembly between 2007 and 2011.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State confirmed the news of the former administrator’s passing, describing it as a huge loss.

In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, Governor Radda expressed profound sorrow over the development.

He recalled Akaagerger’s stewardship during the transition era from military to civilian rule in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.

“Colonel Akaagerger served Katsina State with honour and excellence during a delicate period of national rebirth,” the governor said.

Radda described Akaagerger’s leadership as brief but impactful, highlighting his efforts in fostering unity across regional boundaries.

“Though from Benue, he became a son of Katsina by virtue of his meritorious service,” Radda noted.

According to him, Akaagerger built bridges of brotherhood that transcended ethnic and geographical divides during his tenure.

“Today, we do not only mourn a former military leader, but a statesman who exemplified unity, humility, and dedication,” he said.

The Katsina governor also noted that Akaagerger continued to distinguish himself after leaving the military.

He said the late officer seamlessly transitioned to civil leadership when he was elected Senator in April 2007.

Radda described him as a man who combined military discipline with legal expertise and democratic values.

He emphasized that Akaagerger’s life stood as a testimony to patriotism, professionalism, and the courage to lead during uncertain times.

On behalf of the people of Katsina State, Radda extended condolences to Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia and the deceased’s family.

He said Akaagerger’s legacies of public service and moral integrity would continue to inspire future generations.

“As we lay to rest this gallant officer and seasoned lawmaker, we pray for divine comfort upon his family,” he said.

The statement concluded with a prayer that God forgives the shortcomings of the deceased and grants his family the strength to endure the loss.

Colonel Joseph Akaagerger retired from the Nigerian Army with honour and was widely regarded for his discipline and intellectual capacity.

As a trained lawyer, he brought a legal lens to governance and was known for advocating justice and fairness in public life.

His term as Military Administrator coincided with the tail end of General Abdulsalami Abubakar’s regime, a period marked by Nigeria’s transition to democracy.

In that short time, he laid down administrative structures that aided the peaceful handover of power to elected civilians in 1999.

Many remember him as one of the few military administrators who maintained cordial relations with civil institutions during the military era.

In the Senate, Akaagerger contributed to debates on national unity, constitutional reform, and the welfare of his constituents.

He was often described by his colleagues as soft-spoken but firm, a gentleman officer who preferred diplomacy to confrontation.

As the news of his death continues to reverberate, tributes have been pouring in from various sectors of society.

Military colleagues, political allies, and legal professionals alike have all described his passing as a national loss.

Some commentators say his kind of leadership, firm, humble, and inclusive, is sorely missing in Nigeria’s contemporary political landscape.

The Akaagerger family has not yet released burial arrangements but is expected to do so in the coming days.

Until his passing, Akaagerger remained involved in community initiatives and was occasionally consulted on national security issues.

He was also known to mentor young legal professionals and often gave lectures on constitutional law and governance.

Many believe his legacy will endure through the many lives he touched and the bridges he built across Nigeria.

He is survived by his family, political protégés, and a legacy of honourable public service.

His life reminds Nigerians that true leadership transcends origin, it is defined by selfless contributions to humanity.

From Katsina to Benue, the name Akaagerger continues to echo in the hearts of those he served and inspired.

May his soul rest in perfect peace.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook