Osun Governor Adeleke Declares 3 Days Mourning for Late Chief of Army Staff

The Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, has announced a three-day mourning period following the death of the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Christopher Olukolade Lagbaja. Governor Adeleke, in a statement issued by the state government on Thursday, expressed profound sorrow at the passing of the distinguished military officer and pledged the state’s full support to the Nigerian Army in this difficult time.

Lt. General Lagbaja, who had served as the Chief of Army Staff, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 58. He was widely acknowledged for his leadership and commitment to Nigeria’s security forces and had a distinguished career in the military. His death has been met with an outpouring of grief from all corners of the nation, with tributes pouring in from various groups, individuals, and the military hierarchy.

Governor Adeleke, in his official statement, described the late Chief of Army Staff as a patriot who dedicated his life to serving the country with honor and distinction. He praised Lagbaja’s legacy as a soldier of high repute, whose contributions significantly shaped the nation’s military history and its quest for peace and stability. He further noted that Lagbaja’s leadership in the army was marked by several reforms and innovations that strengthened the nation’s defense and security apparatus.

In honor of the late military chief, Governor Adeleke declared a three-day mourning period starting from Friday, November 8, through Sunday, November 10, 2024. During this period, all government offices, educational institutions, and other state-run entities will observe the mourning. The Governor has also ordered that flags across the state be flown at half-mast as a mark of respect for the late General Lagbaja.

Additionally, the state government will hold a memorial service to celebrate his life and contributions, where military officials, political leaders, and the people of Osun State will come together to honor the late General. The state government has also expressed its readiness to provide any support necessary for the family of the late Chief of Army Staff.

The late Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff in 2022, following the retirement of his predecessor. Throughout his tenure, he worked tirelessly to ensure the Nigerian Army remained effective in combatting insurgency, banditry, and other security challenges facing the country. His leadership was widely respected within the military community, and his passing is seen as a significant loss to the armed forces.

Reports indicate that Lagbaja had been battling a long-term illness, though details surrounding his health challenges had been kept private until his death was officially confirmed. Military sources have described his death as a major blow to the armed forces, as he was seen as a capable and strategic leader in the fight against terrorism and organized crime.

While tributes have continued to pour in from all sides, Nigerian military leaders have vowed to carry on with the late General’s mission of strengthening the nation’s defense forces. The Nigerian Army has released a statement mourning the loss, calling Lagbaja a “great soldier, leader, and a true patriot” who served the country with unflinching dedication. The statement also extended condolences to his family, colleagues, and the entire military community.

The sudden passing of General Lagbaja has also prompted a wave of reflections on the state of Nigeria’s military and security challenges. Analysts have pointed to the need for continued investment in the armed forces and the importance of maintaining the morale of soldiers as they face ongoing threats from insurgents and criminal groups. It is expected that Lagbaja’s death will spur calls for further reforms in the military, especially in terms of welfare and modern equipment to better confront the evolving security threats in the country.

As Osun State observes the three-day mourning, Governor Adeleke’s announcement serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel in ensuring national security. The Governor has urged residents of the state to join in remembering the late General and to pray for his family, the military, and the nation during this time of loss.

Governor Adeleke also called on citizens to reflect on the contributions of soldiers like General Lagbaja, whose lives are often dedicated to the service and protection of the country. The mourning period will offer an opportunity for all Nigerians, especially those in Osun, to honor the late General’s memory and show solidarity with the Nigerian Army.