By Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman (Rtd)
It is with deep sadness and profound respect that I join in mourning the passing of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator, Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Iorshagher Akaagerger (Rtd) MSS psc(+) LLB (Hons) LLM, a legal luminary, distinguished soldier, statesman, and true servant of the people, whose life embodied honour, brilliance, and uncommon humility. He served as the Military Administrator of Katsina State, my State, from August 1998 to 29 May 1999.
I was utterly shocked and devastated when his former ADC, a brother and friend, now a Brigadier General, aware of the special bond we shared, called to inform me of his passing. The news struck like lightning. Though I had never known him personally before our first encounter, he left an indelible mark on my life and my entire community.
I was just a young Captain in 1998 when I approached him with a desperate plea for help on behalf of Kukasheka, my hometown. He was then a serving Lieutenant Colonel and Military Governor. In an extraordinary display of humility and compassion, he did what few in his position would even consider: he dropped everything he was doing in Katsina and followed me, a stranger, a junior officer, more than 150 kilometres to my remote village. His visit was not ceremonial; it was purposeful, heartfelt and deeply human —a historic and unprecedented occurrence in my life and our community.
What followed remains etched in our collective memory. Within 24 hours, he mobilised the full resources of the State government to begin work on the water project he had promised when he came. While others in power might have given vague assurances, he acted with the urgency of someone who truly cared. Through him, water, dignity, and hope flowed into Kukasheka, and to this day, his name is spoken with reverence.
But he didn’t just deliver water; he forged a lasting connection with our people. During his brief time in Kukasheka, he made friends with members of the community, learning their names, listening to their stories, and genuinely bonding with them. Remarkably, he continued to ask about them long after he left the office, just as they prayed for him and asked about his well-being. An unbreakable bond was formed, one of mutual respect, remembrance, and enduring affection.
His compassion was as deep as his credentials were distinguished. A graduate of the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, a seasoned lawyer, and a Senator of the Federal Republic, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator, Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Iorshagher Akaagerger (Rtd) was a man of peace, intellect and uncommon service to humanity. His concern for the common man, from Katsina to Benue and beyond, was a true reflection of his humanity and statesmanship.
To his beloved family, to the good people of Benue State, and to all peace-loving Nigerians, I offer my deepest condolences. To us, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator, Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Iorshagher Akaagerger (Rtd) was more than a military administrator; he was a bridge between power and the people, a symbol of empathy in leadership and a beacon of selfless service. We have indeed lost a great man.
We will never forget him. Kukasheka will never forget him.
May his noble soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.