Anambra State governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has expressed profound sadness on the death of Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on Tuesday at the age of 56.
In his condolence message signed by Mr. Christian Aburime, the Press Secretary to the Governor, Prof. Soludo extended his deepest condolences to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, the Nigerian Army, and the bereaved family of the late General Lagbaja on this irreparable loss.
The governor described General Lagbaja’s untimely departure at the age of 56 as a huge loss to the Nigerian Army and the nation in general.
The governor however reiterated that General Lagbaja’s distinguished military career, marked by his exceptional service and dedication to our nation’s security, serve as a tribute to his uncompromising commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress.
He stated, “As an alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, General Lagbaja brought unparalleled expertise to his role, serving with distinction in various capacities including as platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.
“His leadership in critical internal security operations, from Operation ZAKI in Benue State to Operations Lafiya Dole, Udoka, and Forest Sanity, further demonstrated his tactical acumen and relentless dedication to Nigeria’s peace and stability.”
Governor Soludo, therefore, prays that the Almighty God grants the late general’s soul, eternal rest and give his family the solace to bear this great loss.