A prominent statesman, Dr Agbai Eke Agbai, has paid tribute to former Chief of General Staff, Commodore Ebitu Oko Ukiwe (retd), on his 86th birthday.
Describing the retired naval commodore as an incorruptible public officer, Dr Agbai praised Ukiwe’s steadfast commitment to integrity, courage, and principle during his years in public office.
Ukiwe, a seasoned military administrator, served as governor of Lagos and Niger states before rising to become Nigeria’s second-in-command as Chief of General Staff.
In a birthday tribute released on Monday, 26 October 2026, Dr Agbai noted that Ukiwe’s career stands as an enduring model for contemporary politicians.
“You demonstrated the virtues of principle, integrity, courage, and character,” Dr Agbai stated. “When confronted with circumstances that conflicted with your deeply held values and convictions, you chose to walk away from a highly exalted position at an enormous personal cost. That decision remains a powerful testament to your unwavering commitment to principle over power and conscience over convenience.”
Dr Agbai highlighted Ukiwe’s reputation among his colleagues as “Mr. Stainless,” a moniker reflecting his untarnished record in public service.
He added that Ukiwe’s life delivers a vital lesson on the nature of political office and leadership.
“Your life offers a compelling lesson to contemporary politicians who regard the acquisition and retention of public office as a do-or-die affair,” he said. “You remind us that public office is a responsibility, not a possession; that power is transient, but character endures; and that a good name, earned through principled service, is worth far more than the privileges of office.”
Dr Agbai, who holds the traditional titles of Ochiagha of Abiriba and Akajiofor of Igboland alongside Ukiwe’s historic honours, expressed gratitude for the former leader’s mentorship and wished him continued health, grace, and peace.
Read his full wishes below
H/E, My Dear Ochiagha,
I join the many distinguished men and women of goodwill today to wish you a very happy 86th birthday as you mark another milestone in your remarkable journey through life—an additional 365 days in the chronological measurement of time we call age.
You are an accomplished professional military officer and a seasoned administrator who rose from serving as Governor of two great Nigerian states—Lagos and Niger—to becoming the nation’s second-in-command as Chief of General Staff.
In these distinguished public capacities, you demonstrated the virtues of principle, integrity, courage, and character. When confronted with circumstances that conflicted with your deeply held values and convictions, you chose to walk away from a highly exalted position at an enormous personal cost, even at the risk of your life. That decision remains a powerful testament to your unwavering commitment to principle over power and conscience over convenience.
It is, therefore, hardly surprising that your colleagues fondly describe you as “Mr. Stainless”—a fitting metaphor for an incorruptible public servant and an officer whose integrity has stood the test of time.
Beyond your illustrious public service, you are a loving father, a devoted husband, and a mentor to many young men, including my humble self. We have had the privilege of drinking from your cup of wisdom and learning from your exemplary courage to stand up for what is right, even when doing so comes at a great personal cost.
Today, and indeed every day, men and women of goodwill and conscience stand in salute to you. You remain the Ochiagha of the ancient kingdom of Abiriba, the Akajiofor of Igboland, a distinguished Nigerian statesman, and a living legend whose place in history is assured. Yours is a legacy that historians will continue to document and celebrate in retrospect, long after our present generation has passed.
Your life offers a compelling lesson to contemporary politicians who regard the acquisition and retention of public office as a do-or-die affair. You remind us that public office is a responsibility, not a possession; that power is transient, but character endures; and that a good name, earned through principled service, is worth far more than the privileges of office.
On behalf of myself, my wife, and our entire family, I wish you God’s continued grace, sound health, a long and peaceful life, serenity of soul, and enduring happiness.
I raise a toast to an exceptional officer and a true gentleman, Chief Ebitu Oko Ukiwe, GCON—a man of honour, courage, and enduring distinction.
Happy 86th Birthday, Ochiagha!
With profound respect and warmest regards,
Agbai Eke Agbai, PhD
October 26, 2026.