Associates of the retired military officer and politician confirmed that he was aged 72 and died at a hospital in Apapa, Lagos State after a prolonged illness.
Aikhomu served under Babangida between 1986 and 1993. He was enlisted shortly after graduation into the Nigeria Navy, where he rose to the position of Chief of Naval Staff in 1984. He was a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Management.
The late Aikhomu hails from Idumebo area of Irrua in Esan Central Local Government Council of Edo State.
Before Admiral Aikhomu became a Military Vice President, he was a Commanding Officer, in Shore Patrol Crafts, Commanding Officer, NNS Dorina, Chief of Personnel, Naval Headquarters, Chief of Naval Operations, 1983- 84, and Chief of Naval Staff, 1984- 1986.
Meanwhile, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has received, with shock and sadness, the news of the death of the former number two citizen.
President Jonathan described Admiral Aikhomu as a patriot who dedicated his life to the service of Nigeria in the Navy, and contributed immensely to the political development of Nigeria as second-in-command to Babangida.
“Admiral Aikhomu’s life was defined by the values of hard work and commitment; he was a conscientious and dutiful officer who was in all respects admirably equipped for his roles in the military and in the larger society”, the President added.
Also, the Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole who spoke through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Peter Okhiria, expressed sadness at the demise of Admiral Aikhomu.
Oshiomhole regretted that Nigeria has lost an important player in her political development in the last two decades.
“Although he served under Military Administrations, he managed to cut the image of a father figure and a moderate influence,“the governor added.
He hailed from Esan in Edo State .
May his gentle soul rest in peace, Amen.
R.I.P Aikhomu,we the Esan people will surly missed you.