Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi has mourned the first Military Administrator (MILAD) of the state, Navy Capt. (Rtd) Walter Feghabo, describing his death as a colossal loss to the state and nation.
Feghabo was the pioneer MILAD of the state when it was created on Oct.1, 1996 by late Gen. Sani Abacha.
Nwifuru, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Monday Uzor and made available to newsmen in Abakaliki, said Feghabo would forever be remembered as a man of vision.
The governor said the deceased’s discipline and uncommon patriotism laid a solid socio-economic and political foundation for Ebonyi at its infancy.
“Feghabo took the historic responsibility of giving direction, hope, and administrative structure to a fledgling state, emerging from two parent states.
“He nurtured the dreams of our founding fathers with courage, foresight and selflessness which set the tone for the developmental trajectory we are building upon presently.
“The deceased ‘s commitment to public service and passion for national unity, stand as enduring legacies that continues to inspire generations of Ebonyi people including myself,” the statement read.
Nwifuru noted that the story of Ebonyi ‘s progress could not be told without acknowledging Feghabo ‘s pioneering sacrifices and statesmanship.
“I, on behalf of the government and people of Ebonyi, extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, government and people of Bayelsa including the Nigerian Navy.
“We mourn the loss of this gallant officer, visionary leader, nation builder and of course, one of our grandfathers,” the statement read. (NAN)