The Middle Belt Forum, MBF, has described the death of the former governor of old Gongola State, Ambassador Wilberforce Bafte Juta as a great loss to all ethnic nationalities struggling for the restructuring of the nation.
The forum said it is inspired by Amb. Juta’s life which was focused on promoting inclusiveness for all Nigerians across ethnic and religious divides.
A statement issued on Sunday by its National President, Dr. Pogu Bitrus, noted that the death of the former governor at the age of 76, in Yola, was not only shocking but also heralded the end of a life dedicated for the development and emancipation of the Nigerian people.
The forum explained that “Considering the footprints left by the late elder statesman, Amb. Juta’s death is not only a loss to Adamawa State but also all the ethnic nationalities for which Juta gave his last full measure of devotion for their emancipation.”
The statement explained that as a politician, Juta joined like minds to push for the development of old Gongola State,
It said within the short period he served as governor, Amb. Juta deployed unrivalled leadership qualities to unify various ethnic nationalities by embarking on policies aimed at promoting economic empowerment through industrialisation and provision of basic health for the people of old Gongola State.
As someone who was never weary of rallying forces for the common good, the statement observed that he continued to remain an influential leader that galvanised political support as a foundation member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 1998.
The forum said it is saddened by the death of the distinguished son of the Middle Belt Region considering the present challenges confronting the ethnic nationalities and Nigeria in general.
“The forum wishes to commiserate with the people and government of Adamawa State. We send our condolences to the immediate family members of our departed leader on the occasion of this painful demise. Our prayers are with Amb. Juta’s family during this period of mourning. We beseech on the Almighty God to grant fortitude to all to bear the pains of this irreparable loss,” the statement explained.
