The former military administrator of Katsina State, who died recently at the age of 69, has been described as “a symbol of integrity, wisdom, and courage, whose legacy transcends partisanship.”

The caretaker committee chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State, Benjamin Omale, described Akaagerger as “more than a political figure,” who dedicated his life to public service and the welfare of his people, and “consistently championed the causes of justice, equity, and development, earning the admiration and respect of friends and political opponents alike.”

Reflecting on his tenure, the APC recalled his “principled stance and strong leadership” while in office, stating, “He brought honour and dignity to the office, leaving behind a record of leadership that will continue to inspire generations.”

The party described his death as “a loss not just to the Konshisha people and the Jechira bloc, but to the entire Benue state and Nigeria at large,” adding, “We have lost a voice of reason, a pillar of wisdom, and a bridge between generations.”

Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State also expressed his condolences, referring to Akaagerger as “a brother who bound Katsina and Benue with cords of friendship that death cannot sever.”

In a statement released by his chief press secretary, Ibrahim Mohammed, Radda highlighted Akaagerger’s impact during his time as military administrator of Katsina: “In the brief but impactful period he spent steering the affairs of our state, he built bridges that have withstood the test of time.”

Radda described Akaagerger as a “legal luminary, distinguished soldier, and true servant of the people,” praising his legacy of unity, service, and integrity. He offered prayers for Akaagerger’s soul and strength for his family.

Akaagerger was born on May 5, 1956, in Konshisha Local Government Area of Benue State and of Tiv origin. He attended Government Secondary School, Gboko, between 1969 and 1973. He joined the army by attending the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna, between 1976 and 1977, and the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst, United Kingdom, between 1977 and 1979.

He also obtained LLB and LLM degrees from the University of Jos and a doctorate in International Economic Law from the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He held the traditional title of Ambe u Konshisha (the Konshisha Crocodile).

He joined politics and contested and won the senatorial election to represent the Benue North-East Senatorial District (Zone A) in the Senate.