The death of Senator (Prof.) Jonathan Silas Zwingina, former representative of the Southern Senatorial District of Adamawa State and a member of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA) Board of Trustees (BoT), has been described as shocking and devastating.
In a tribute held in Abuja, the Worldwide President of the association, Prof. Saawua Gabriel Nyityo, expressed deep sorrow at the passing of the distinguished Nigerian statesman, who died on October 2, 2024, at the age of 70.
Prof. Nyityo highlighted Zwingina’s remarkable contributions to the UIAA, noting that his memory will be forever enshrined in the legacy of the association. He stated, “The late politician has left a great void in the advisory of the association and the political structure of Adamawa State.”
He extended his condolences to the late senator’s spouse, Dr Christy Zwingina, saying, “The deceased patriarch was an epitome of humility and wisdom who dedicated his life to the service of God and humanity, having had a very successful career in politics as a distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Reflecting on Zwingina’s impact on the University of Ibadan, Nyityo remarked, “UIAA is indeed proud of him for upholding the University of Ibadan’s tradition of excellence and for his invaluable contributions to the association as a member of the Board of Trustees. His legacy of integrity, courage, and abiding faith in God are the torch he lit while on earth with us.”
He further acknowledged Zwingina’s national contributions, expressing pride in his service to the country. “We also would like to acknowledge the important role he played in his service to the nation at large. We pray that the Almighty God will grant the entire Zwingina family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. May the good Lord grant his soul eternal rest,” Nyityo said.
Recalling the senator’s contributions to Nigeria’s development, Prof. Nyityo stated, “He was a scholar, technocrat, public servant, and politician of high repute who left an indelible mark on our nation’s history. He was a leading voice in the struggle for democracy and served as the Director General of the late MKO Abiola’s Hope 93 Campaign Organisation during the iconic June 12th, 1993 Presidential Election.”
Nyityo also praised Zwingina’s intellect and unwavering dedication to democracy, saying, “His intellectual depth, eloquence, and unwavering commitment to democratic ideals resonated deeply with Nigerians.”
As a senator, Zwingina was a vocal advocate for due process and national development, particularly in governance, oversight, and accountability. “While in the Senate, he promoted national development priorities with particular emphasis on policy, good governance, and the oversight role of the parliament in holding government accountable to the people,” Nyityo noted.
Before his tenure in the National Assembly, Zwingina played a key role in shaping national discourse as Director of the Mass Mobilisation for Social Justice, Self-Reliance, and Economic Recovery (MAMSER) programme during President Ibrahim Babangida’s military administration.
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