Senator Monday Okpehbolo, the governor of Edo State, has expressed his profound sadness over the death of Major General Godwin Osagie Abbe, the former minister of defense.
After a protracted illness, Abbe died on Saturday night in Abuja. He was known for his noteworthy services to the country and his illustrious military career.
His death was confirmed by a family member who said, “We lost him after a protracted illness.”
Abbe, who was born in Benin, Edo State, on January 10, 1949, had a stellar military career and was promoted to major general. Before retiring in 1999, he held the positions of Interior Minister and Minister of Defense for Nigeria. He started serving in the military in 1967 and was promoted to Colonel in 1986.
Abbe served in the Nigerian Civil War and attended the Ghana Armed Forces Staff College, the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, and the United States Army Infantry School, Fort Benning, Georgia, to enhance his military training.
Among his many important military roles were those of military governor of Rivers State (1990–1991) and Akwa Ibom State (1988–1990). Additionally, he held the positions of Commandant of the National War College, Commander of the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), and General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Nigerian Army’s 2nd Division.
His chief press secretary, Fred Itua, issued a statement on Sunday expressing Governor Okpehbolo’s profound sadness and sympathies for his demise.
“General Godwin Osagie Abbe was a shining star whose light has been extinguished, but his legacy will continue to inspire and guide us,” the governor’s statement read.
“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.” Okpehbolo declared.
