Tribute to Senator Lt. Col. Joseph Akaagerger (Rtd.)

By Adamu S. Ladan, Former Director of Press, Government House, Katsina State (1997–1999)

With deep sorrow and profound respect, I join countless others in mourning the passing of Senator Lt. Col. Joseph Akaagerger (Rtd.). The sad news of his demise was officially announced by the Caretaker Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State.

A distinguished soldier, statesman, and patriot, Senator Akaagerger served Nigeria with honour, discipline, and unwavering commitment. He passed on at the age of 69.

According to the statement, “the late senator was more than a political figure—he was a symbol of integrity, wisdom, and courage, whose legacy transcends partisanship.”

As Military Administrator of Katsina State, he provided firm yet fair leadership that prioritized public order, institutional stability, and infrastructural development at a critical juncture in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

His sojourn to the State effectively laid to rest the historical burden of indebtedness the Tiv people bore toward the Fulani in Katsina over the ‘munci’ episode. He not only proclaimed but also practically demonstrated that Katsina remained his second home until his passing.

I had the rare privilege of serving as his Director of Press at Government House, Katsina, until that historic day—29th May 1999—when he peacefully handed over power to the democratically elected administration of the late President Umar Musa Yar’adua.

Working directly under him, I found in Akaagerger a pillar of strength and support—always standing by his team in moments of challenge. Despite his military background, he was an exemplary, visionary, and compassionate leader, who inspired excellence through encouragement, guidance, and an unwavering belief in his team. He led not through fear, but through trust, vision, and principled firmness.

The current Governor of Katsina State, Dikko Umar Radda, also acknowledged this legacy in his tribute, describing Col. Akaagerger’s contributions as “immense” during a sensitive transition period in the state’s history.

According to a statement by Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor:

“In the brief but impactful period he spent steering the affairs of our state, he built bridges that have withstood the test of time. Today, we don’t just mourn a former Military Administrator—we mourn a brother who bound Katsina and Benue with cords of friendship that death cannot sever.”

Indeed, it was a dignified transition that underscored his deep respect for constitutional governance.

Following his military service, Senator Akaagerger continued to serve Nigeria with distinction in the political arena.

As Senator representing Benue North-East (Zone A), he brought professionalism to the Red Chamber, emerging as a vocal advocate for justice, equity, and the well-being of his constituents.

He was a man of quiet strength, thoughtful leadership, and unwavering integrity—qualities that defined both his military and public life.

Born on 5 May 1956 in Konshisha Local Government Area of Benue State and of Tiv heritage, Akaagerger attended Government Secondary School, Gboko (1969–1973). His military career began at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna (1976–1977), followed by the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom (1977–1979).

Despite the demands of military life, he remained a lifelong learner. He earned LLB and LLM degrees from the University of Jos, and a Doctorate in International Economic Law from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. After retiring from the military, he established Ambe Chambers, a law firm based in Abuja.

He also remained deeply rooted in his community and was honoured with the traditional title Ambe u Konshisha—“the Konshisha Crocodile.”

As we commiserate with his family and community, we also celebrate a legacy of service and sacrifice—etched in the histories of both Katsina and Benue States. His impact will remain indelible in the hearts of those who worked closely with him and in the institutions he helped strengthen.

May the Almighty grant his soul eternal rest and comfort all who mourn this monumental loss.