Earlier today -yesterday, December 22 –Â we lost a highly respected brother, leader and elder stateman.
As a hugely decorated officer, General Godwin Osagie Abbe held numerous and sensitive administrative and military positions, including as Military Governor of Rivers and Akwa Ibom States.
He was also Minister of Defence and earlier of Interior.
When Nigeria faced a dangerous detour to economic ruins following violent agitations in Niger Delta, General Abbe, it was, who initiated dialogue instead of gunboat diplomacy.
His action took many from mosquito-infested creeks to ivory towers, spawning a new genre of knowledge-driven youth activism.
15 years ago, I convinced him to sit down for a documentary interviews on his life. The last interview took place three years ago. Early next year, in honour of, and tributes for his great service to Nigeria, and as highly respected role model for my generation, I’ll be echoing his voice from deep profundities of sleep.
Good night, Sir.
