ILOBU MOURNS AS HOMETOWN BIDS FAREWELL TO GEN. LAGBAJA. (PHOTO).

 Ilobu mourns as hometown bids farewell to Gen. Lagbaja

• Community begs Tinubu, Nigerian Army to bury him in birthplace

The normally vibrant air of Ilobu, a semi-urban community nestled in Osun State’s Irepodun Local Government Area, was thick with an unmistakable sadness on the day the news broke. Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, had passed away, and with him, the heart of his hometown seemed to have gone quiet.

As residents gathered in clusters across the town, their faces etched with disbelief and sorrow, the true depth of the loss began to sink in. The community, once buzzing with excitement in anticipation of its annual celebration, was now caught in the throes of mourning. At the Oyedele’a compound, the family home of the late COAS, the grief was palpable. Pa Tajudeen Lagbaja, the patriarch of the family, was seen sobbing uncontrollably, surrounded by women who struggled to comprehend that their beloved son, brother, and benefactor was gone.

In a community that had long held Lagbaja in high esteem, the loss was felt in every corner. The Ilobu-Asake Development Union (IDU), led by President Olufemi Salako, made an emotional announcement suspending the much-anticipated Ilobu Day 2024 celebrations indefinitely. The event, which had been scheduled to run from November 4 to 10, was to include a major fundraising initiative aimed at raising N200 million for development projects in the area—a project which Lagbaja was meant to lead alongside other prominent sons of Ilobu, including former Deputy Speaker, Lasun Yusuf.

Salako, speaking at Olobu’s palace, expressed shock and deep sorrow over the general’s passing. “His death has left a vacuum in the community,” he said. “At a time when his leadership and service were needed most for the development of Ilobu, Osun State, and Nigeria, he has been taken from us. We find solace in the legacy of dedication, gallantry, and commitment to Nigeria that he leaves behind.”

As Ilobu reeled from the sudden loss, the community’s leaders made a heartfelt plea to President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian Army. They called for the remains of the late COAS to be returned to Ilobu, his hometown, for burial. Pa Tajudeen Lagbaja, his voice breaking with emotion, said, “It feels as though a part of me has died with him. He was our benefactor, and we want him to rest here in Ilobu, beside his father, in the family compound where he grew up.”

The request was simple: to honour the man who had given so much to Nigeria by allowing him to be laid to rest in the land he loved. The Ilobu community, already mourning, now found itself united in grief, with all celebrations placed on hold. The immediate focus, said Salako, was on offering prayers for Lagbaja’s family, the Nigerian Army, and the entire nation. As the town of Ilobu mourns, the legacy of the late Chief of Army Staff will live on—not just in the monumental military contributions he made but in the hearts of the people who knew him best. His devotion to his community, his country, and his role in securing Nigeria’s future will forever remain a beacon for Ilobu and beyond.

Buhari mourns ‘patriot’ Lagbaja

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed profound grief over the untimely passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS). In a statement issued by his spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu, the former president described the late military leader as a “true patriot” and an “exemplary officer” whose service to the nation left an indelible mark.

Buhari’s tribute, which followed the official announcement of General Lagbaja’s death, conveyed the depth of his sorrow and the magnitude of the loss to Nigeria. The former president recalled the significant contributions of the late army chief, noting that he was “one of the finest soldiers” in the country’s military ranks.

“When I was the Commander-in-Chief, Lagbaja, as one of the commanders of the army, caught my attention as one of the bravest officers who served the nation with utmost devotion,” Buhari reflected. His admiration for the late General’s unwavering commitment to duty was clear as he went on to recount several key military operations that Lagbaja played a pivotal role in, which bolstered Nigeria’s internal security efforts.

Among these missions were Operation Zaki in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger states. “In these various frontlines of internal security operations, General Lagbaja left no one in doubt about his military capabilities,” Buhari remarked. “He left his indelible footprints as a professional soldier and inspiring commander wherever he served.”

The former president’s words emphasised the loss not only to the military but also to the broader Nigerian society. He extended his condolences to the late General’s family, the Nigerian Army, and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who succeeded him as Commander-in-Chief. “I pray to the Almighty to repose his soul and reward his courageous services to the Nigerian Army and the nation,” Buhari added in his heartfelt message.

First Lady condoles with widow, children

In addition to Buhari’s tribute, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu also expressed her sorrow at the passing of the late COAS. Accompanied by the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, and the wife of the National Security Adviser, Hajia Ribadu, Mrs. Tinubu paid a condolence visit to the family of General Lagbaja.

The First Lady, who was received by Mrs. Oghogho Musa, wife of the Chief of Defence Staff, comforted the grieving widow, Mrs. Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja, and the couple’s children. She reminded them that “only the Lord determines when a man’s time on earth ends,” offering solace through the enduring legacy left behind by the late General. In a statement issued by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi, Mrs. Tinubu urged the family to take comfort in the “good life and legacies” General Lagbaja left behind, encouraging his children to pursue the ideals their father had dedicated his life to. Mrs. Tinubu expressed her heartfelt sadness in her earlier condolence message, praising the late COAS’s remarkable career, which was marked by valor, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to the nation. “It is with a heavy heart that I received the sad news of his demise,” the First Lady stated, “May Almighty God comfort and grant them the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.”

Condolences from Senate Leaders

The passing of Lt. General Lagbaja has reverberated across the political spectrum, with prominent figures in the Nigerian Senate expressing their condolences. Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, described the late army chief as a “fine officer” who dedicated his life to the security and unity of the nation. Akpabio was particularly shocked by the timing of Lagbaja’s death, coming just days after the late General had reportedly been in good spirits about his return to office.

“It is with deep sorrow that I mourn the passing of a fine, committed, and dedicated officer who served the country with all his might, even at the risk of paying the supreme price,” Akpabio said in a statement. “This loss is a huge blow to the country, especially at a time when we need his wealth of experience to combat insecurity.”

Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, also expressed his sorrow, praising Lagbaja for his distinguished military career and immense contributions to Nigeria’s security. Jibrin acknowledged the late COAS’s vital role in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping, which have plagued the country for years. He further extended his condolences to President Tinubu, the Nigerian Army, and the Lagbaja family.

Senator Abba Patrick Moro, the Senate Minority Leader, highlighted the late General’s commitment to the country and his active role in pushing back against Nigeria’s security challenges. Moro called for the late officer’s legacy to live on, noting that his successor must rise to the challenge and continue to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity. “Lt. General Lagbaja’s time as Chief of Army Staff saw a great push against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping,” he said. “His death leaves a huge void in our national security efforts, but I trust that his successor will continue his legacy of courage and patriotism.”

Across Nigeria, leaders and citizens alike have been united in their grief at the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, whose dedication to the armed forces and to the nation was unparalleled. As Chief of Army Staff, Lagbaja led with distinction, overseeing several critical operations that enhanced the security apparatus of the nation. Under his leadership, the Nigerian Army made significant strides in improving operational capabilities, ensuring the safety of citizens and the protection of Nigeria’s borders. His tireless efforts and unwavering patriotism earned him the admiration of both his colleagues in the military and political leaders across the country.

The Senate Committee on Defence, along with other military bodies, has pledged to honour his memory, ensuring that the Nigerian Army remains a formidable force capable of defending the nation and maintaining its peace. “General Lagbaja’s legacy will continue to inspire and motivate our troops to carry on his exemplary work,” said Senator Ahmad Lawan, Chairman of the Senate Committee  on Defence.

Mbah pays tribute to a ‘gallant officer’

Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, led the tributes, expressing profound grief over the death of the Chief of Army Staff. In a statement, Mbah described the late General Lagbaja as a “gallant and patriotic officer” who gave his all to the service of the nation. The Governor reflected on the late officer’s tenure as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, based in Enugu, from March 2021 to August 2022. “His passing is a grave loss, not just to the Nigerian Army and the entire nation, but also a personal loss to the government and people of Enugu State,” Governor Mbah stated. He acknowledged Lagbaja’s distinguished career, which spanned multiple roles, including his service at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College in Jaji and the United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC). As Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Lagbaja’s contributions to Nigeria’s security challenges were immeasurable, Mbah added, noting the tremendous support Lagbaja provided to the administration’s efforts in combating insecurity. The Governor conveyed his deepest condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Army, and the family of the late General, praying for his soul to rest in peace.

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Kogi Governor shocked

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, also mourned the late COAS, describing his death as a “huge loss” to the entire country. In his statement, Ododo highlighted the particular sadness of losing General Lagbaja at a time when the fight against insecurity was gaining momentum. “General Lagbaja was a fearless and indomitable fighter, a tactical genius, and a determined warrior who was committed to eradicating terrorism and banditry,” he said.

Governor Ododo extended his sympathies to President Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the entire Nigerian Armed Forces, as well as to the people of Osun State, the home state of the late officer. He called on the Nigerian military to continue the vision of security that General Lagbaja had started, ensuring that his dream for a safe and secure Nigeria does not fade with his passing.

Delta Governor mourns

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, expressed his condolences, praising the late Gen. Lagbaja for his outstanding contributions to the Nigerian Army and the country as a whole. In his statement, Oborevwori recalled his personal interactions with Lagbaja during the Okuama tragedy, where the late officer displayed remarkable leadership, calmness, and strategic thinking in the heat of crisis. The Governor noted that Gen. Lagbaja’s selfless dedication to his country and his calm but resolute approach to leadership had earned him the respect of all who worked with him. “His passing is a deep loss to our country and the military. We will miss his courage, leadership, and unwavering patriotism,” Governor Oborevwori stated. He also extended his condolences to President Tinubu, the Nigerian Army, and the late officer’s family, offering prayers for his eternal rest.

 Imo and Ebonyi Governors pay last respects

Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, also mourned the death of Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, describing his passing as a devastating blow to the country and the Nigerian Army. In his statement, Uzodimma noted that General Lagbaja’s leadership was marked by humility, gallantry, and a deep commitment to securing Nigeria’s territorial integrity. “It is tragic that he passed away at a time when his services were most needed in the fight against insecurity,” the Governor lamented.

Governor Uzodimma expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late COAS, particularly his widow, Mariya, and extended his sympathies to President Tinubu, the Nigerian Army, and the people of Osun State. He also prayed for the deceased’s soul to rest in eternal peace and for God to grant his family the strength to bear the great loss.

Similarly, Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, described the death of Lt. Gen. Lagbaja as a “colossal loss” to Nigeria. Governor Nwifuru praised the late officer for his courage, resilience, and steadfast commitment to safeguarding Nigeria, particularly in the face of rising terrorism and insecurity across the country. “His vision and leadership strengthened the Nigerian military and inspired countless soldiers to serve with integrity,” Nwifuru said.

The Governor further expressed that Gen. Lagbaja’s legacy of service would endure, and his contributions to the Nigerian Army and the nation would never be forgotten. “The nation mourns the loss of a true patriot and leader,” he concluded.

Soludo reflects on Lagbaja’s  career

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, also joined in mourning the late Chief of Army Staff, noting that his untimely death was a huge loss to the country. In a statement, Governor Soludo acknowledged Gen. Lagbaja’s distinguished career, which included serving in critical internal security operations such as Operation ZAKI in Benue, Lafiya Dole in the Northeast, and Operations Udoka and Forest Sanity in various parts of Nigeria. “His leadership in these operations showcased his tactical acumen and relentless dedication to Nigeria’s peace and stability,” Soludo said.

Governor Soludo also highlighted Lagbaja’s academic achievements, noting his training at the prestigious U.S. Army War College, which equipped him with unparalleled expertise. He expressed his condolences to the family of the late General, the Nigerian Army, and President Tinubu, praying for eternal rest for the departed officer.

Abia Governor expresses sadness

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has expressed deep sadness over the sudden death of Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, describing it as shocking and untimely. The Governor noted that General Lagbaja’s passing at 56 was particularly tragic as his services were still greatly needed by the nation. Otti recalled a close personal and professional relationship with the late Army Chief, highlighting their successful collaboration to enhance peace and security in Abia. He offered condolences to the President, the Nigerian Army, and the family, praying for the departed officer’s soul to rest in peace.

Adeleke, Oyinlola: boss is tragic

The Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, and former governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, have expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja.

Governor Adeleke described General Lagbaja’s death as a tragic loss, not only for Osun State, where the late officer hailed from, but also for the Nigerian Army and the nation. In a heartfelt statement, Adeleke praised Lagbaja’s vision for operational reforms within the military, highlighting his commitment to modernising the Army and fighting insecurity with unwavering determination. He noted the General’s professionalism and relentless work ethic, describing him as a “workaholic” and a “true patriot,” dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of Nigeria. Adeleke recalled their last encounter, where Lagbaja spoke optimistically about the future of the Nigerian Army as a unifying force for the country. He extended his condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the late General’s family, saying that although his death came too soon, his legacy would endure.

Former Governor Oyinlola, a retired General himself, also mourned the passing of his colleague, describing it as a monumental loss. He remembered Lagbaja as a “warrior of the finest breed,” whose leadership during his brief tenure as Chief of Army Staff was marked by excellence. Oyinlola commended Lagbaja’s dedication to preserving the reputation of the Nigerian Army, and his deep respect for his elders and fellow officers. Oyinlola conveyed his condolences to the President, the military leadership, and the people of Osun and Ilobu, the hometown of the late General, acknowledging that Nigeria had lost a true hero.

Katsina Governor pays tribute to Lagbaja’s legacy

Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has joined the people of Katsina State and Nigerians in mourning the passing of Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja. In a statement issued through his Chief Press Secretary, Governor Radda described the late General as a “distinguished military officer” whose dedication to securing Nigeria’s territorial integrity and combating internal security challenges was exemplary.

Radda praised General Lagbaja’s strategic leadership and his unwavering commitment to military excellence, noting that his tenure as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 1 Division of the Nigerian Army was pivotal in addressing security challenges, particularly in Katsina State and the surrounding regions. He also recalled their meetings on security matters, where General Lagbaja demonstrated his dedication to eradicating banditry and ensuring the safety of Nigerians.

The Governor also highlighted the late General’s visit to Katsina on September 6, 2024, where he assessed military operations and civil-military relations, showcasing his hands-on leadership approach. Radda further commended Lagbaja’s innovative efforts in counter-terrorism and military modernization, which have left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s security infrastructure. Governor Radda extended his condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Army, and the family of the late General, emphasizing that Nigeria has lost a patriotic and committed leader.

He was a patriot, says Southern Senators’ Forum

The Southern Senators’ Forum, led by Senator Tokunbo Abiru, paid tribute to Lagbaja, describing him as a patriot, a man of honour and integrity,  whose strategic insight and deep understanding of Army operations,impacted the battle against insecurity.

Abiru said in a statement said his impact will be felt by the country because of his vision and and service.

He said throughout his career, he worked hard to protect the country’s sovereignty and welfare of its people.

Abiru added:”He was a pillar of strength, dedication and professionalism in the Nigerian Armed Forces. Throughout his career, he demonstrated unwavering commitment to the safety and security of Nigerians and led with an unwavering commitment to protect the sovereignty of the country.”