Tinubu orders state burial for late COAS, Lagbaja

A delegation from the Nigerian Army, led by Major General Kamal Yusuf, announced on Tuesday that President Bola Tinubu has authorized a state burial for the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.

The announcement was made during a condolence visit to the Olobu of Ilobu, Oba Ashiru Olaniyan, at his palace in Osun State.

During the visit, Yusuf, who was a classmate of the late General at the Nigerian Defence Academy, shared fond memories of their early days together. He recounted how they traveled by train from Osogbo to Kaduna to begin their military careers.

Yusuf described Lagbaja as a dedicated officer who always led by example, noting that his unwavering commitment to duty resulted in continuous promotions throughout his career, ultimately leading to his appointment as Chief of Army Staff.

“Our visit today is to express our condolences and inform you about the burial arrangements,” Yusuf said. “President Tinubu has directed that Lieutenant General Lagbaja be accorded a state burial, meaning he will be laid to rest at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja, alongside other national heroes.”

He further noted that provisions have been made to accommodate family members who wish to attend the funeral.

Presenting a condolence letter from the Nigerian Army to Oba Olaniyan, Yusuf expressed the hope that such tragic events would not happen again.

“Lagbaja was a gallant and pragmatic officer, a true combatant, which is why President Tinubu trusted him with the position of Chief of Army Staff,” Yusuf said.

Earlier, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke welcomed the Army delegation at the Osun Government Secretariat in Abere.

Commending President Tinubu’s decision to grant a state burial, Adeleke described Lagbaja as “a bright star of Osun and Nigeria, taken too soon.”

He also praised the Army’s commitment to completing community projects initiated by the late General in Ilobu, Ifon, and Erin Osun.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for approving the state burial and to the Army for its dedication to finishing the projects. “We will continue to support these efforts,” he added.

Proofreading by Uchechi Ojo, Sub-editor at NeptunePrime.