Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), who passed away on Tuesday after a prolonged illness.
In a statement issued Wednesday, Adeleke described Lagbaja as “a rare breed, a gentleman, and a true patriot,” adding that his death is “a huge misfortune” for the state, the Nigerian Army, and the nation as a whole.
Adeleke offered condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian military, the people of Ilobu in Osun State, and Lagbaja’s family.
“A huge misfortune has befallen the people of Osun State, the Nigerian Army, and the great Lagbaja family of Ilobu,” Adeleke said. “We have lost a rare breed, a gentleman, and a true patriot to the cold hands of death.”
He praised Lagbaja’s leadership, noting his efforts to implement significant reforms within the Nigerian Army. “Our late brother had a big vision for operational reforms within the Nigerian Army. He initiated and implemented a root-and-branch reform of the military,” Adeleke added. “During his tenure, he enforced professionalism, battling terrorists and bandits with fierce determination.”
Adeleke remembered Lagbaja as a hardworking and dedicated officer with plans to modernize and integrate the Army. “In my last encounter with him, he exuded hope and aspirations for a better Nigeria, envisioning the military as a stabilizer and unifier of the federation.”
The governor noted that Lagbaja’s death was sudden but emphasized the need to accept it as part of God’s will. “We mourn together on this sad occasion. On behalf of the people and government of Osun State, we extend our condolences to Mrs. Mariya Lagbaja and their two children,” Adeleke said.
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia also mourned Lagbaja’s passing, describing him as a key figure in strengthening national security. In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, Alia highlighted Lagbaja’s efforts to address the security challenges in Benue State, noting that the late COAS worked closely with President Tinubu’s administration to restore peace.
Alia expressed his condolences to Lagbaja’s family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, praying for the strength to bear the loss. “He prays to God to give his immediate family, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the entire country the fortitude to bear this great loss,” the statement read.
