Passing of late CoAS, ‘huge misfortune’, says Osun Governor
By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has expressed profound sorrow over the sudden passing of late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoheed Lagbaja, hailing him as a “rare breed” and a “true patriot.”
Describing the loss as a significant misfortune for Osun State, the Nigerian Army, and the people of Ilobu, Adeleke extended his heartfelt condolences to the Lagbaja family, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a statement signed by the governor, Adeleke praised General Lagbaja’s contributions to the Nigerian Army, particularly his commitment to operational reforms, professionalism, and modernization. The governor highlighted Lagbaja’s dedication to enforcing discipline and his vigorous campaigns against terrorism and banditry.
Reflecting on Lagbaja’s legacy, Governor Adeleke noted, “Our late brother had a big vision for operational reforms within the Nigerian Army. Within his short time in office, he began implementing substantial reforms, enforcing professionalism, and battling terrorists and bandits with remarkable tenacity.” He described Lagbaja as a “workaholic,” “fierce soldier,” and “a modernized replica of the traditional army officer.”
Governor Adeleke also shared a personal memory of his last encounter with the late General, recalling Lagbaja’s aspirations for a unified and stable Nigeria with a robust military.
“In late General Lagbaja, we had a great military leader with the poise, confidence, and resolve to realize the vision of a new Nigerian Army,” he stated.
Acknowledging the grief of Lagbaja’s immediate family, Adeleke extended his sympathies to the General’s widow, Mrs. Mariya Lagbaja, and their two children.
“We mourn together on this sad occasion,” he said. “On behalf of the people and Government of Osun State, we extend our commiserations to Mrs. Mariya Lagbaja and the entire Lagbaja family.”
Governor Adeleke concluded his message with a solemn reminder of the inevitability of fate, saying, “We surrender to the will of the Almighty.”
