Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke expressed deep sorrow on Wednesday over the passing of Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff, describing his death as a “huge misfortune” for Osun State, the Nigerian Army, and the nation at large. In a heartfelt statement, Adeleke extended condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the Lagbaja family in the Ilobu community, and the people of Osun State.

Governor Adeleke paid tribute to Lagbaja’s dedication, describing him as a hardworking and visionary officer who aimed to modernize and integrate the Nigerian Army. “We have lost a rare breed, a gentleman, and a true patriot to the cold hand of death,” Adeleke remarked, highlighting Lagbaja’s efforts to enforce professionalism and confront threats from terrorists and bandits.

Recalling his last meeting with Lagbaja, Adeleke reflected on the general’s hopes for a better Nigeria, with a strong, unified military playing a stabilizing role in the federation. “In the late General Lagbaja, we had a great military leader with the poise, confidence, and determination to realize the vision of a modernized Nigerian Army,” he noted. “Unfortunately, the end came suddenly, and we surrender to the will of the Almighty Creator.”

The governor extended heartfelt sympathies to Lagbaja’s wife, Mrs. Mariya Lagbaja, and their two children. “On behalf of the people and Government of Osun State, we extend our condolences to the Lagbaja family, the people of Ilobu, and the entire Nigerian Armed Forces as we mourn together in this time of great loss,” he concluded.