Ex-president Buhari laments Lagbaja’s demise, describes him as patrot

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sadness over the death of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, describing him as a patriot and an outstanding officer who served the nation with utmost diligence.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Malam Garba Shehu, following the official announcement of the demise of the Chief of Army Staff, the former president said he was deeply shocked by the news of death, adding that the nation had lost one of its finest soldiers.

“When I was the Commander-in-Chief, Lagbaja, as one of the commanders of army, caught my attention as one of the bravest officers who served the nation with utmost devotion.

“In the various frontlines of internal security operations, including Operation Zaki in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in South-east Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States, General Lagbaja left no one in doubt about his military capabilities.

“He left his indelible footprints as a professional soldier and inspiring commander wherever he served.

“I pray to the Almighty to repose of his soul and reward his courageous services to the Nigerian Army and the nation.”

The former president extended his condolences to the family of deceased, the Nigerian Army, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the government and the entire people of the country.