- Safiu Kehinde
The Nigerian Army has finally broken silence over the death of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
Hours after the announcement of his death, the Armed Force mourned the passing of the COAS in a post on their official X handle.
The Army lauded the late COAS’ service to Nigeria while maintaining that his legacy and contributions will never be forgotten.
“Rest in Peace Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Nigeria’s 23rd Chief of Army Staff, who passed away on November 5, 2024.
“You dedicated your life to serving Nigeria, with a distinguished career spanning over three decades.
“Your immeasurable legacy and contributions will never be forgotten.” The post read.
Prior to the announcement of Lagbaja’s death, the Army had kept mum over rumours surrounding his ill-health, darkening the mystery of his absence.
They would, however, deny initial reports of his death, claiming that the COAS was on leave.
Last week, NPO reported the appointment of Major General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede as the acting Chief of Army Staff by President Bola Tinubu while the status of Lagbaja’s condition remained unknown.
Oluyede, a colleague of Lagbaja would later be promoted by Tinubu as Lieutenant General.
Few hours after the promotion of the acting COAS, the Presidency announced Lagbaja’s death.