By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
GOV. Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has expressed shock over the death of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, describing his demise as a huge loss to the country.
Ododo disclosed this in a statement signed by Mr Kingsley Femi Fanwo,
Commissioner for Information and Communications and made available to newsmen on Wednesday in Lokoja.
Describing the loss of Lagbaja as a huge one, Ododo said the deceased General was a fearless General and an indomitable fighter.
Governor Ododo said the departure of the gallant and brave Army Chief was particularly sad at this time when the fight against insecurity in Nigeria has gathered momentum.
He noted that the late COAS was “a fearless General, an indomitable fighter, a tactical genius and an uncompromising warrior” who was determined to stamp out terrorism and banditry from Nigeria.
The Governor extended his heartfelt sympathies to the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR).
He also commiserated with the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Military establishment, the Government and people of Osun State and the family of the departed hero.
Gov. Ododo called on the Nigerian Armed Forces to ensure that the dreams of the departed COAS of ensuring a secured and safe Nigeria do not die with him.
The Governor prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased.