By Erewunmi Peace

Former Nigerian Heads of State — General Yakubu Gowon, General Ibrahim Babangida, and General Abdulsalami Abubakar — alongside former Senate President David Mark, have paid glowing tributes to the late Professor Jonah Isawa Elaigwu, describing him as an outstanding scholar and patriot whose work shaped Nigeria’s political thought.

The distinguished leaders joined other dignitaries at a Night of Tributes held in Abuja to honour the life and legacy of the respected political scientist, renowned for his service as President of the Institute of Governance and Social Research (IGSR) and his decades of academic contribution.

General Gowon, who led the tributes, described the late professor as “a man of deep intellect, honesty, and faith whose scholarship inspired generations.” He recalled their shared years of nation-building and praised Elaigwu’s efforts toward inter-ethnic understanding and good governance.

Representatives of Generals Babangida and Abdulsalami also spoke glowingly of Prof. Elaigwu’s impact on Nigeria’s academic and public service landscape. They commended his balanced insights on leadership and federalism, which, they said, continue to influence policy and political education across the country.

Senator David Mark, who chaired the occasion, noted that Prof. Elaigwu’s passing leaves a vacuum in Nigeria’s intellectual and moral community. He urged academics and public servants to emulate his humility, courage, and dedication to national unity.

Prof. Elaigwu, a respected political scientist and author, was widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s foremost authorities on governance and leadership. His death has drawn condolences from scholars, public institutions, and former students nationwide.