Peniel Williams
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, and senior defence officials paid a condolence visit to Mrs Mariya Lagbaja, widow of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Taoreed Lagbaja, at his official residence in Abuja on Thursday, 7th November 2024.
During the visit, IGP Egbetokun paid tribute to Lt Gen Lagbaja, describing him as a dedicated leader who committed his life and expertise to safeguarding Nigeria’s security. He expressed profound sorrow over the loss, emphasising that the late COAS’s efforts in the fight against insurgency and terrorism had left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s defence landscape.
Accompanying the IGP were the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, the Minister of State Defence, Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle, Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, along with other service chiefs and senior Defence Headquarters officials. Their presence underscored the respect and high regard in which the late General was held across Nigeria’s security agencies.
In his remarks, IGP Egbetokun highlighted the significant void created by General Lagbaja’s passing, calling it a “great loss to our dear country.” On behalf of the Nigeria Police Force, he extended condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the family and friends of the late General. The IGP offered prayers for comfort and strength for those mourning the loss of a dedicated servant to Nigeria’s peace and stability.
The condolence visit reflected the unity and shared grief across Nigeria’s security institutions following the passing of Lt Gen Lagbaja, whose legacy remains woven into the country’s ongoing security efforts.
