Editor
By Fatima Saka
Hon. Aminu Balele Kurfi, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Army, has described the death of former Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja, as a tragic and profound loss to Nigeria.
Hon. Balele made this statement during a condolence visit to the new Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olafemi Oluyede, at his office in Abuja.
He noted that General Lagbaja passed away at a time when the country needed his leadership the most, emphasizing that he will be remembered by all Nigerians for his dedication and service to the nation.
He further stated that General Lagbaja’s passing is not only a loss of exemplary leadership but also a testament to his unwavering dedication to the Nigerian military. Hon. Balele urged the Nigerian Army to take inspiration from the late general’s life and service, stressing that how one serves is how they will be remembered.
Hon. Balele also assured that under the leadership of Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, the House of Representatives will continue to support the Nigerian military in its efforts to make Nigeria a crime-free society. He encouraged Lieutenant General Oluyede to continue the work and legacy left by the late General Lagbaja.
In response, Acting Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Olafemi Oluyede expressed deep sorrow over General Lagbaja’s death. He acknowledged the government’s efforts, under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, to support the late general during his illness and affirmed that his passing was ultimately God’s will.
Lieutenant General Oluyede expressed gratitude to the House of Representatives for their unwavering support of the Nigerian Army during this difficult time. He described General Lagbaja as a dedicated and professional officer committed to achieving results, noting that he had known the late general for many years as a classmate and colleague.
He reassured the nation of the Nigerian Army’s readiness to maintain peace and security, calling for continued support from all Nigerians.
Hon. Aminu Balele later visited the family of the late General Lagbaja, where he signed the condolence register and offered his sympathies to the widow, Mrs. Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja.
General Taoreed Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, after a brief illness.
