Gowon, IBB, Mark lead tributes for late scholar, Jonah Elaigwu

Former heads of state, Yakubu Gowon and Ibrahim Babangida, alongside former senate presidents David Mark and Iyorchia Ayu, have paid glowing tributes to the late Jonah Isawa Elaigwu, describing him as a patriot and intellectual giant whose ideas helped shape Nigeria’s political development.

The leaders spoke during a night of tributes held in Abuja on Friday in honour of the late professor of political science, who until his passing was president of the Institute of Governance and Social Research (IGSR) and professor emeritus at the University of Jos.

Babangida, represented by Godwin Adakole, described Elaigwu as a “national intellectual asset” whose scholarly contributions and advisory roles enriched governance and reform processes in Nigeria.

He recalled inviting Elaigwu to serve on the presidential advisory committee during his administration, noting that his insights were invaluable in matters of federalism and democratic governance.

“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,” Babangida 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.”

Gowon, represented by Solomon Asemota, a senior advocate of Nigeria (SAN), commended the late scholar’s commitment to research, advocacy and policy engagement in strengthening Nigeria’s federal structure.

He said Elaigwu’s work had made significant contributions to Nigeria’s understanding of nationhood and governance.

Abdulsalami Abubakar, the former head of state, represented by Nicholas Ella, the immediate past permanent secretary in the ministry of petroleum resources, also lauded Elaigwu’s lifetime of patriotic service and academic distinction.

He said the late professor was a courageous educationist who gave his best to the pursuit of knowledge and the service of humanity.

“Late Prof. Elaigwu was patriotic and served with distinction at both the Ahmadu Bello University and the University of Jos,” Abubakar said.

“I found him a courageous and very dedicated educationist who gave all his life in serving his country Nigeria, and humanity.”

Ayu described Elaigwu as a towering intellectual and mentor who lived for scholarship, truth and public service.

Recalling their early years as pioneer staff of the University of Jos, Ayu said the late professor valued excellence and integrity and became a global authority in comparative federalism and civil–military relations.

“Prof. Elaigwu was an exceptionally hardworking and erudite scholar. He valued excellence and integrity, and had mentees across Nigeria’s ethnic and religious divides,” Ayu said.

“He was a global authority in comparative federalism and civil–military relations, recognised internationally for his works and writings. Beyond academia, he influenced public policy with the aim of improving lives.”

Mark, in his tribute, said Elaigwu’s death was a “monumental loss, not just to the academia, but to the entire nation”.

He recalled visiting the Elaigwu family as a young man and growing up admiring the professor’s intellect, discipline and warmth.

“Prof. Elaigwu was a pathfinder, a beacon of light and a towering figure, whose ideas helped shape Nigeria’s national development and inspired generations of scholars,” Mark said.

“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 works went beyond the university walls, shaping governance and Nigeria’s quest for unity and stability.”

Other dignitaries, including academics, political associates and former students, described the late professor as a humble leader who combined scholarship with moral excellence and public service.

The event also featured performances by veteran musician Bongos Ikwue, who serenaded the audience with some of his classic hits in honour of his late friend.

Reflecting on their relationship, Ikwue said Elaigwu was “not only a great mind but a kind soul who believed in the power of music and dialogue to build unity”.

In an emotional family tribute, Victoria Elaigwu described her father as a man of “unwavering strength, boundless love, and deep wisdom”, noting that he mentored younger scholars and instilled the values of hard work, integrity and compassion in his children.

“He taught us the values of hard work, integrity, and compassion, leading by example in everything he did. His legacy is one of patriotism, resilience, kindness and unyielding love. We will carry his memory in our hearts forever,” she said.

Born in 1948, Elaigwu served as a teacher, researcher and policy adviser to successive governments in Nigeria.

He was globally recognised for his expertise in federalism, political stability and democratic governance, and remained one of the most respected voices on Nigeria’s nation-building journey until his passing.