ABUJA — Former military administrator of Osun and Abia States, Colonel Anthony Uzoma Obi (rtd), has died at the age of 69. He passed away on Saturday, January 1, 2022, at 6:03 p.m., according to a statement released by his family.
Born in 1952, Obi served as the military governor of Osun State from August 1996 to August 1998, during the regime of General Sani Abacha, and of Abia State from August 1998 to May 1999, when Nigeria obtained full democracy. He also held administrative duties in Abia State during his military service.
In a tribute issued on Sunday, Osun State Governor Gboyega Oyetola expressed sorrow over Obi’s passing, describing it as a national loss. He praised Obi’s contribution to state-building and acknowledged the foundation he helped lay during the years of military governance in Osun.
“The death of Colonel Anthony Obi (rtd) is painful and a huge loss not only
to his family but to the nation. He was a brave, committed and experienced
military officer who served Nigeria and Osun in particular selflessly and
passionately,” Oyetola said.
“As a military administrator, Obi made remarkable contributions to
governance in Osun and was one of the leaders who laid the foundation of our
State and left some legacies he will be remembered for.”
Oyetola also offered condolences on behalf of the government and people of Osun State, commending the late colonel’s dedication to national service.
The family’s statement, signed by Okenwa Aneke, reflected on the personal qualities of the deceased, describing him as a disciplined and loving patriarch who was “a lion, a warrior, a brave soldier.”
“Our father was a lion, a warrior, a brave soldier, who served Nigeria as
governor of Osun State and Abia State,” the statement read.
“He shared with us love deeply portrayed throughout his lifetime and most
importantly, he was the bravest man we ever knew. We only ask for prayers
and goodwill for our family in this time of grief and trying moment.”
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by the family. Colonel Obi’s death marks the loss of yet another figure from Nigeria’s era of military governance.