The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has directed all officers and personnel of the Nigeria Police Force to wear black armbands for a seven-day mourning period in tribute to the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
The directive, issued in a statement by Force Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi on Thursday, underscores the respect and recognition for the fallen general’s dedication and valor in the fight against insurgency in Nigeria.
The statement read, “In light of the passing of Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has directed that officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force wear black armbands throughout the seven-day mourning period. This gesture honors a leader who displayed remarkable courage, dedication, and commitment to combating violent crimes and insurgency in Nigeria. May his soul rest in peace.”
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, appointed by President Bola Tinubu on June 19, 2023, passed away on Tuesday night at age 56, following a prolonged illness.
In further tribute, President Tinubu ordered Nigeria’s national flags to be flown at half-mast for seven days nationwide. This directive was communicated by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement titled, “Announcement of the Passing of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.”
