Former Nigerian senator dies

Jonathan Silas Zwingina, former Senator representing Adamawa Southern Senatorial District and a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, has passed away.

Zwingina, who served as the Director-General of the MKO Abiola Campaign Organisation during the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election, reportedly died in Abuja on Tuesday after a long battle with illness. He had recently celebrated his 70th birthday just two months prior.

Although an official family statement is yet to be released, sources close to the elder statesman confirmed the news of his death. “The advocate of democracy has gone to the great beyond,” a source remarked, paying tribute to the late politician.

Born in Adamawa State, Zwingina was a founding member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and made significant contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development. During his time in the Senate, beginning in 1999, he served two terms as Senate Majority Leader. He was also appointed to key Senate committees, including those on Works & Housing, Internal Affairs, Information, and Economic Affairs.

In the later stages of his political career, Zwingina defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He also held the position of chairman of the Board of Trustees for Save Democracy Group Africa, an organization dedicated to promoting democratic governance across the continent.

Zwingina will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to democracy and the pivotal role he played in Nigerian politics.