The Nigeria Police Force is set to honor the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, with a seven-day mourning period.
This was disclosed by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, in a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, on Thursday.
News About Nigeria reports that the late Lagbaja, who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu on June 19, 2023, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 56 after a prolonged illness.
The IGP, in the statement, also directed members of the Nigeria Police Force to wear black bands during the seven-day mourning period.
He noted that this gesture is to honor Lagbaja, who demonstrated gallantry, dedication, and passion in the fight against insurgency in the country during his lifetime.
He eulogized the late COAS, stating that he deserves to be honored as a great leader.
The statement reads: “Following the demise of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has ordered officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force to wear black bands throughout the seven-day mourning period.
“This directive is to pay tribute and honor the late General, who showed gallantry, dedication, and passion for fighting violent crimes and insurgency in Nigeria. He was a great leader who deserves to be honored by all means.
“May the soul of the late COAS rest in peace.”
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also directed that Nigeria’s national flags be flown at half-mast for seven days across the country to mourn the passing of the late army chief.
