The Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, along with top service chiefs, defence ministers, and senior officials, visited Mrs.
Mariya Lagbaja, widow of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoheed Lagbaja, at his Abuja residence on Thursday to express their condolences.
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, who passed away on Tuesday in Lagos at age 56 after a brief illness, was remembered as a dedicated leader in the fight against terrorism and insurgency in Nigeria.
During the visit, the IGP said, “Lt. Gen. Lagbaja was a great man who dedicated his life and wealth of experience to defending our nation’s security space.” He added that the general’s passing leaves a significant void in Nigeria’s military.
The Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, also led a delegation to the family. In his tribute, he praised Lagbaja’s commitment, stating, “We only take solace in the fact that we cannot in any way question the Almighty. Rest in peace, our leader and hero. You will surely be missed.”
The visit included senior military figures such as Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Minister of State for Defence Dr. Bello Matawalle, and Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa.
