General Abbe: An Iroko has fallen – David Mark
Former Senate President David Mark mourned the passing of General Godwin Osagie Abbe, describing it as the fall of an “Iroko,” symbolizing a significant loss for Nigeria.
Mark emphasized that Abbe’s death leaves a substantial vacuum in the nation, recognizing his distinguished military career and contributions as a former Defence Minister and Military Governor of Akwa Ibom and Rivers States.
Abbe passed away in Abuja after a prolonged illness, just weeks shy of his 75th birthday
Senator Mark said General Abbe was an uncommon patriot who gave his all both as an officer in the military and civil rule in the service of the nation.
Reacting to the exit of Abbe in Abuja, Senator Mark noted that General Abbe was his Comrade in Arms who upheld the sanctity of integrity, discipline and love for man and country.
Senator Mark stated: “General Abbe was a great soldier, one of the leading lights in the Arms Forces of Nigeria. In all the assignments he handled, he demonstrated unwavering commitment, dedication, and patriotism and was faithful to the end.
” As military governor of Akwa Ibom and Rivers states at different times, General Abbe left a legacy of accomplishments and indelible footprints.
“As General Officer Commanding ( GOC) and Commandant Training and Doctrine of the Nigerian Army ( TRADOC) as well as Commandant, National War College ( NWC), General Abbe demonstrated brilliance and upheld the highest traditions of the Arm Forces, especially in the protection of the territorial integrity of the nation.
According to the former Senate President, “He was Nigeria’s Minister of Defence with a difference. He was a leader of leaders” stressing, “In General Abbe, Nigeria has lost one her best and fertile minds . He has left a huge vacuum that would be difficult to fill”.
Senator Mark prayed that God, in His infinite mercy, grant General Abbe eternal rest and the family the fortitude to bear the loss.
