Nigeria Grieves as Army Chief Passes at 56

Nigeria was on Wednesday, thrown into mourning following the passing of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Taoreed Lagbaja, who submitted to protracted illness, Tuesday night in Lagos. He was aged 56.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a release by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, announced Lagbaja’s passing.

Tinubu, who expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time, wished Lagbaja eternal peace and honoured his significant contributions to the nation.

Tinubu also directed the postponement of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting till another date to be announced, in honour of the dead.

In addition, Tinubu he ordered that flags be flown at half-staff nationwide for seven days in honour of the departed general.

Born on February 28, 1968, Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu.

His military career began when he enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987.

On September 19, 1992, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps as a member of the 39th Regular Course.

Throughout his service, Lagbaja demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment, serving as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.

He played pivotal roles in numerous internal security operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States.

An alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, demonstrating his dedication to professional growth and excellence in military leadership.

Lagbaja is survived by his wife, Mariya, and two children.

Meanwhile, Nigerians from different walks of life have continued to mourn the passing of Lagbaja.

Leading the pack was former President Muhammadu Buhari; former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar; former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki; the sitting Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and his deputy, Jibril Barau.

Others were a former governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; Ministers of Defence, Abubakar Badaru and Bello Matawalle; the new Chief of Army Staff, Olufemi Olueye; the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa; and the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), among others.

Also, yesterday, the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu and wife of the Vice-President, Hajia Nana Shettima, paid a condolence visit to wife of the deceased, Mrs. Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja.

In another development, the people of his Ilobu Community in Osun State, family, and their monarch, His Royal Majesty, Ashiru Olatoye Olaniyan II, have demanded the release of his body to community.

Muhammadu Buhari

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has describing Lagbaja as a patriot and outstanding officer, who served the nation with utmost diligence.

In a statement, Buhari said he was deeply shocked by the news of death, adding that the nation had lost one of its finest soldiers.

Going down memory lane, the ex-President said, “When I was the Commander-in-Chief, Lagbaja, as one of the commanders of army, caught my attention as one of the bravest officers, who served the nation with utmost devotion.

“In the various frontlines of internal security operations, including Operation Zaki in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States, General Lagbaja left no one in doubt about his military capabilities.

“He left his indelible footprints as a professional soldier and inspiring commander wherever he served. I pray to the Almighty to repose of his soul and reward his courageous services to the Nigerian Army and the nation.”

Oluremi Tinubu

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, expressed sadness over the demise of the three-star General.

Mrs. Tinubu, who immediately paid a condolence visit to Lagbaja’s widow, Mariya, in company with Mrs. Shettina, in a condolence message personally signed, said, “It is with a heavy heart that I received the sad news of the demise of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Taoreed Lagbaja.

“Throughout his career, the late Chief of Army Staff exemplified valor, patriotism, and unwavering dedication to the service of our dear country.

“I extend my deepest condolences to his wife, Mrs Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja, children, family, friends, colleagues and associates. May Almighty God comfort and grant them the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.”

The First Lady who was also accompanied by the wife of the National Security Adviser, Hajia Ribadu, was received by the wife of the Chief of Defence Staff, Mrs Oghogho Musa, who prayed for the family.

While comforting Mariya, and the children, Mrs Tinubu noted that only the Lord could determine when a man dies.

She urged them to be comforted by the good life and legacies he left behind while urging the children to remain focused and pursue the ideals their father lived for.

Atiku, Saraki, Obi

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President Bukola Saraki and the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in 2023, Peter Obi, on Wednesday, joined Nigerians in mourning Lagbaja.

They each described it as a shock to Nigeria, the military and a personal loss to his family.

Atiku said, ”The passing of any soul diminishes us all, for in the departure of one, a part of humanity fades away. It is with a heavy heart and sorrowful spirit that I received the news of the tolling of the bell for the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, who was called from this world in the very prime of his life.

“My heartfelt condolences go out to his grieving family and to the Nigerian Army, to which he dedicated his service with unwavering honour and distinction. May his soul find eternal peace and rest.”

Saraki, who was President of the 8th senate, said, ”General Lagbaja’s contributions to safeguarding our nation and advancing peace and security in our communities will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude.

”To his grieving family and the entire Nigerian Armed Forces, we extend our deepest condolences. We pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) grants him a place amongst the righteous in Al Jannah Firdaus. Ameen.”

Obi, on his part, wrote: ”I have just read the official announcement of the unfortunate death of Chief of the Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.

”On behalf of my family and the Obidient family, I sincerely condole with the entire Lagbaja family, the Government of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Army over this painful loss, which has indeed created a big vacuum in his family and our dear nation.

”May God Almighty, who called him home at this time, forgive his sins, grant him eternal rest, and grant his family, Nigeria’s military, the Nigerian government, and all of us the fortitude to bear his sad and irreplaceable loss. May God protect and bless his family always.”

Akpabio, Barau, Kalu

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, his deputy, Jibrin Barau and the Chairman, Senate Committee on Privatisation Orji Kalu, have described Lagbaja as a fine officer, who gave his all for the territorial security and unity of the country.

Akpabio, in a statement by his media aide, Jackson Udom, on Wednesday, said he received the news of the death of the late military chief, with shock, a few days after he had spoken with the President and was upbeat about his return to office.

“His death, coming at a time the country needed his wealth of experience in tackling and bringing to an end insecurity in some parts of the country, is a huge loss to the country and the security community.

“He was a fine, committed and dedicated officer, who served the country with all his might, even at the risk of paying the supreme price. On behalf of my family, the people of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District and the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“I commiserate with the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the military community, the larger Lagbaja family on this great loss.”

Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, in a statement by his media aide, Ismail Mudashir, also extolled the virtues of the late Army Chief, saying he contributed immensely to the overall security sector of the country.

“It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, who died last night in Lagos after a period of illness.

“Lt. General Lagbaja served with honour, courage and dedication throughout his distinguished military career. His appointment as Chief of Army Staff by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on June 19, 2023, reflected his confidence in his leadership, vision and commitment to the security of our nation.

“Lt. General Lagbaja’s life was marked by a relentless devotion to Nigeria and its people. His legacy will be remembered not only in the annals of our Armed Forces but in the hearts of all who knew and respected his work.”

Former Abia State governor, Orji Kalu, described the deceased as a gallant and patriotic officer, noting that he demonstrated a high level of professionalism in various capacities in the Nigerian army.

Kalu conveyed his condolences to the government and people of Osun State, while praying to God to comfort the deceased’s wife and children.

“The late General Lagbaja served the country meritoriously in various positions in the Armed Forces. He was known for his patriotism, doggedness, professionalism and integrity. The deceased left behind a good legacy for his family and loved ones to uphold.”

Tajudeen Abbas

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has described Lagbaja’s passing as a huge loss to the Armed Forces and Nigeria as a country.

Abbas, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi, recalled how Lagbaja, after becoming the army chief, went round military bases across the country, especially in the North-East and North-West, to motivate soldiers at the battlefields.

Further describing him as “a gallant military officer,” Abbas noted that the late Army Chief recorded modest achievements in a short period as the COAS.

The Speaker commiserated President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Lagbaja family, the people, and government of Osun State over the loss, and prayed for the repose of the soul of the late Chief of Army Staff.

Badaru, Matawalle, Oluyede

Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru and the Minister of state for Defence, Bello Matawalle, have condoled with Tinubu over the demise of Lagbaja, who passed Tuesday night.

Speaking with newsmen on Wednesday shortly after the postponement of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the State House, Abuja, the Defence Minister described Lagbaja’s death as tragic and a great loss to the nation.

“It’s really very sad. It’s really tragic. So, what is this opportunity to condone Mr. President over this heavy loss, indeed, his family and the entire Nigeria? It’s a great loss for our country.

He was a gallant officer, very hardworking and and has been in all the theaters of war and he has done commendably well for this country. It’s a very, very, very sad loss.

Matawalle, on his part, said, “We enjoyed working with him, because, as the Honorable Minister said, he’s a gallant officer, and it’s a great loss to this nation. All we can say is ask God to bless the family, and we urged Nigerians that we continue praying for the spirit of Lagbaja.

“We send our condolences to the family of the deceased and Mr. President, because it’s a great loss to our nation., Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja was a warrior.”

Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Olatubosun Oluyede, described as regrettable the demise of his boss, Lagbaja.

Oluyede told reporters that Nigeria under the leadership of President Tinubu did all possible best for the COAS to be alive.

“It’s highly regrettable. I mean the country as a whole under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, did the very best for him to be alive with us today. But as we all know, we all belong to God and He takes when He feels necessary for him to do so.

“It’s on a very sober note that I am talking this moment because the entire Nigeria Army is actually is a sorrowful mood because we have lost our leader, Lt. Gen. Lagbaja.

“He was someone that gave his all to Nigeria. He was a selfless leader, very passionate about Nigeria and he led the Nigeria Army very well. He was courageous, he was known to be thorough and a professional to the core.

“So, it’s a big loss to us. And all we can say at this moment is that we pray that the good Lord will find a place for him to rest.”

CDS, Armed Forces of Nigeria

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, on Wednesday, on behalf of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), conveyed his condolences to Tinubu, family of the late General and all Nigerians.

A statement by Acting Director Defence Information, Brig Gen Tukur Gusau, said the CDS described the late COAS as a courageous, hard working, reliable, loyal, and dedicated service chief whose tireless efforts and unflinching commitment to the security and well being of the nation was unparalleled.

“Therefore, his passing is a tremendous loss, not only to his family, the Army and the AFN but also to the entire nation and humanity.

“Lieutenant General Lagbaja’s legacy of exceptional service and loyalty leaves an indelible mark on the Nigerian Army, the AFN and the national defence security landscape.

“Appointed as the Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2024, he demonstrated exemplary leadership, spearheading the establishment of the Nigerian Army Aviation Wing and playing instrumental roles in multiple security operations across the country.”

Nigeria Governors’ Forum

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has sent her profound condolences to Tinubu, the Nigerian military establishment, and the Lagbaja family on the loss of the former chief of army staff.

A statement by Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Kwara State Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq stated that, “Our hearts are especially with the family and the Nigerian Army at this difficult moment.

“We are comforted by the unforgettable memories of his unblemished services to our country. Even in death, Lt. Gen. Lagbaja stands honoured for his bravery and dedication to a greater, united Nigeria.

“We ask Almighty God to forgive his shortcomings, admit him to al-jannah Firdaus, and give his family the strength to get through this tough phase of life.”

Inuwa Yahaya

Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has described the late COAS as a distinguished officer, who served the nation with remarkable courage and dedication.

“General Lagbaja’s life and career were defined by commitment to the Nigerian Armed Forces and an exceptional dedication to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty amid the ongoing challenges posed by insurgency, banditry, and other criminal activities,” he remarked.

The NSGF chair also noted that the late Lagbaja embodied the values of discipline, bravery, and integrity that characterised the finest traditions of military service, adding that his leadership played a significant role in strengthening the nation’s defence framework and upholding peace and stability.

Babajide Sanwo-Olu

Lagos State Governor and the Chairman of the South-West Governors’ Forum, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has describedhis death as a colossal loss to Nigeria.

He commiserated with Tinubu, security chiefs, the Nigerian Army and the entire Nigerians over the death of the Chief of Army Staff.

Sanwo-Olu, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, described Lagbaja, as a dutiful and committed soldier who served Nigeria passionately.

“I am saddened by the death of Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja. His death was a painful loss to Nigeria. He was a dutiful and committed soldier who served Nigeria passionately with dedication, skill, gallantry, and total commitment. He employed his long years of experience and expertise in the service of our fatherland,” he said.

Hyacinth Alia

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, in a condolence message described the late Chief of Army Staff as someone,who played key roles in ensuring internal security in the country.

He said Lagbaja especially, developed a keen interest in the security situation in Benue State, and had worked assiduously with his administration to ensure that peace returned in the State.

He prayed to God to give his immediate family, the Nigerian Armed Forces and the whole country, the fortitude to bear the loss. He equally asked God to grant him, eternal rest.

Sheriff Oborevwori

Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has said Lagbaja would be missed for his outstanding accomplishments and contributions to the growth and development of the Nigerian Army.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, in Asaba, he condoled with Tinubu, the Army authorities and family of the deceased on the death of the Chief of Army staff.

“The late Lagbaja was an outstanding officer, whose selfless and immense contributions to the country will forever be cherished.

“I recall with relish my engagements with the late Chief of Army Staff during the Okuama tragedy. He came across as a deep thinker, brilliant strategist, and great patriot.

“His calm disposition in the heat of the crisis was a great source of inspiration and assurance. May God grant his soul eternal repose,” he said

Francis Nwifuru

Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has described Lagbaja’s death as a colossal loss to the Nigerian Army and the nation.

In a statement by his spokesman, Monday Uzor, he said the late Army Chief throughout his career, demonstrated courage, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to safeguarding the nation.

“It is sad that the nation mourns the loss of a true patriot and leader whose service and dedication to the Armed Forces and to the protection of our homeland remain immeasurable especially in the wake of terrorism, banditry and armed conflict in some parts of the country,” he said.

Ademola Adeleke

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adelele, has described Lagbaja’s death as “a huge misfortune.”

“A huge misfortune has befallen the people of Osun State, the Nigerian army and the great Lagbaja family of Ilobu. We lost a rare breed, a gentleman and a true patriot to the cold hand of death.

“Our late brother has a big vision of operational reforms for the Nigerian Army. He launched out and commenced the implementation of root and branch reform of the Nigerian Army.

“Within his short stint in office, he enforced professionalism and battled terrorists and bandits with terrifying fierceness.

“Our late brother was a very hardworking officer, a true workaholic, a fierce soldier, a replica of the traditional army officer with an ambitious plan for modernization and integration of the Nigerian Army.

“In my last encounter with him, he exuded hope and aspirations of a better Nigeria with the military as a stabiliser and unifier of the federation. In late General Lagbaja, we had a great military leader with the poise, the confidence and the firmness to realise the vision of a new Nigerian Army.

“Unfortunately, the end came suddenly. We surrendered to the will of the Almighty creator. I commiserate with the Commander – in- Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces, my people of Ilobu and the great Lagbaja family.”

Meanwhile, the 2024 Ilobu day celebration billed to take place on Saturday, has been suspended in respect of the late Lagbaja, an indigene of the ancient town.

Siminalayi Fubara

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed sadness over the death of Lagbaja.

In a message, Fubara extended his condolences to Tinubu, the Nigerian Army; and the bereaved family on this great loss, noting that Lagbaja’s selfless service, sacrifices and commitment to the security, unity and progress of Nigeria were worthy of emulation.

He prayed Almighty God to grant his soul eternal rest and also give his family the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss.

He, however, congratulated Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede on his appointment as the Acting Chief of Army Staff, and pledged the support of the government and people of Rivers to enable him succeed in his onerous assignment.

Babagana Zulum

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has described the demise of the COAS as a profound loss, noting that his exemplary leadership quality and dedication to the Nigerian military.

“General Lagbaja’s leadership qualities were inspirational. He consistently motivated troops with his presence at the frontline, showing unwavering commitment to securing the nation,” he said.

Highlighting Lagbaja’s contributions, Zulum referred to him as a “quintessential infantry General” who played a pivotal role in restoring stability across multiple regions including the northeast through Operation Hadin Kai.

“On behalf of the government and people of Borno State, I extend my deepest condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the bereaved family during this difficult time,” he said.

Southern Senators’ Forum

The Nigerian Southern Senators Forum, has expressedsorrow over the untimely passing of Lagbaja, describing his death is a monumental loss to the Nigerian military and the entire nation.

Joining millions of Nigerians in mourning, the forum in a statement by its Chairman, Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, extended heartfelt condolences to Tinubu, his family, friends, and the Nigerian Armed Forces.

“We also sympathise with all Nigerians, especially the men and women of the Nigerian Army, who served under his command. We stand in solidarity with the military and the country as a whole during this difficult time.

“Lieutenant General Lagbaja was a pillar of strength, dedication, and professionalism in the Nigerian Armed Forces. Throughout his career, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the safety and security of Nigeria.

“He led with a sense of honour, integrity, and an unshakeable resolve to protect the sovereignty of our nation. His leadership was a testament to his patriotism and his devotion to the welfare of the Nigerian people.

“Under his guidance, the Nigerian Army made significant strides in combating security challenges across the country. His strategic insight, coupled with his deep understanding of Nigeria’s unique security dynamics, brought about impactful and positive changes in the Army’s operations.

“His loss will be deeply felt, not only within the military but by all Nigerians who benefitted from his vision and service. May Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest, and may He comfort his loved ones and all those who mourn him.”

APC National Secretary

The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Ajibola Basiru, has expressed shock over the demise of Lagbaja.

He said, “His is a death too many. He has left in his prime. A fine, gallant officer, one of the military best brains to have come from the South West and particularly, Osun.

“General Taoreed Lagbaja came across as a calm, unassuming officer yet with brilliant ideas to transform the Army and tackle insurgency headlong. We have lost a promising soldier.”

The APC scribe however commiserated with the Nigeria military, Osun State, the Olobu of Ilobu, Ilobu community and the deceased’s immediate family, praying Allaah to grant all concerned the courage to bear the bereavement.

Monarch, Family, Demand Release of Body

The monarch, family and people of the Ancient Ilobu town,the headquarters of Irepodun Local Government of Area of Osun State, have urged the federal government to release the body of Lagbaja to his family for a befitting burial.

Head of the Lagbaja Family, Pa Tajudeen Lagbaja, who was visibly traumatised, said, “It would be good and nice for the federal government to assist us by releasing the body of our departed son for the entire Ilobu Community because of who he was when he was alive to the town.”

He expressed sorrow over the departed soul, saying the people of Ilobu would love to see their son being given befitting burial in his community because both old and young in the community would love his body to be brought home because of the exemplary leadership he displayed when he was alive

At the same time, the traditional Monarch of the ancient town of Ilobu, His Royal Majesty, Ashiru Olatoye Olaniyan II, noted that the exit of Lagbaja was a painful exit and disaster to the Nation.

He described the death of Lagbaja as devastating to Ilobu and the nation as it came at a time when his service and leadership were needed for the development of Ilobu.

He, therefore, called for Lagbaja’s body to be brought to his hometown of Ilobu as a mark of honour and respect for his contributions to the community and the nation.

The monarch called on Nigerians to remember Lagbaja, Ilobu Community and the Nigeria Army in their prayers as Ilobu mourned the transition of his illustrious son.

DECAN

The Defence Correspondents’ Association of Nigeria (DECAN), has said Lagbaja was a distinguished and revered leader, whose exemplary dedication and service to Nigeria’s security and sovereignty would forever be remembered.

In a statement, the association wrote: “Lagbaja was an embodiment of commitment, valor, and unwavering patriotism. Throughout his career, he remained steadfast in his resolve to protect and defend our nation, and his contributions have left an indelible mark on the Nigerian Armed Forces.

“His leadership inspired countless military personnel and Nigerians alike, as he devoted his life to the cause of national unity and security,” extending its heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian Armed Forces, the bereaved family, and all Nigerians mourning this profound loss.

“We stand in solidarity with our brave men and women in uniform who continue to uphold the values that Lieutenant General Lagbaja so passionately defended.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and all those affected by this tragedy. May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy of duty and resilience guide the Nigerian Army in these challenging times.”

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