Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed all police personnel to wear black bands for seven days in honor of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja.
This gesture follows the Federal Government’s order to fly the national flag at half-mast to mourn the deceased COAS, who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu on June 19, 2023.
In a statement Thursday, Muyiwa Adejobi, Force PRO, stated that the black band directive “is to pay tribute and honour the late General who has shown gallantry, dedication, and passion for fighting violent crimes and insurgency in Nigeria”.
The Explainer reported, General Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday in Lagos after a brief illness, as announced by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga on Wednesday.
Prior to his demise, the Defence Headquarters had denied rumors of his death, stating he was on leave.
During this period, President Tinubu appointed Olufemi Oluyede as the acting Chief of Army Staff and subsequently promoted him to lieutenant general on Tuesday.
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The statement described General Lagbaja as “a great leader who deserves to be honoured by all means.”
“May the soul of the late COAS rest in peace.” Adejobi stated.
