Okpebholo said the late military officer and administrator was a testament to discipline, dedication, and service to the nation
By Kehinde Okeowo
Former military Governor of Akwa Ibom State, General Godwin Osagie Abbe, has passed away.
He reportedly died in Abuja on Saturday after a protracted illness.
His demise was confirmed in a statement issued in Benin City by Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo.
According to him, the governor while mourning the late General described him as a legendary son of the state.
He went on to say the revered military officer and administrator was a testament to discipline, dedication, and service to the nation.
He added that his illustrious career in the Nigerian Army was marked by numerous achievements.
He further said that as a proud son of Edo State, General Abbe’s distinguished service to the nation is a source of inspiration and pride.
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Okpebholo said, “His tenure as Military Governor of Akwa Ibom State from 1988 to 1990, and later as Minister of Defence and Internal Affairs, demonstrated his exceptional leadership qualities and commitment to the well-being of the Nigerian people.
“General Godwin Osagie Abbe was a shining star whose light has been extinguished, but his legacy will continue to inspire and guide us. We celebrate his life, his service, and his contributions to our great nation.
“As we bid farewell to this remarkable individual, we reflect on the traditional and philosophical principles that guided his life and career.
“May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to illuminate the path to greatness for the people of Edo State and Nigeria as a whole.”
Godwin Abbe, who administered Akwa Ibom State between July 31, 1988, and September 5, 1990, also governed Rivers State between August 1990 and January 1992.
The retired Major General was also the Minister of Interior between July 26, 2007, and July 14, 2009, during the administration of the late President Umaru Yar’Adua.
An alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Ile-Ife, he was born on January 10, 1949, and would have attained the milestone of 76 years on January 10, 2025.
The late Abbe retired in 1999 after attaining the rank of Major General.