The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed all officers and personnel of the Nigeria Police Force to wear black bands for a seven-day mourning period following the passing of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
This gesture is to pay tribute to the late general’s outstanding service and leadership in the fight against insurgency and violent crimes in Nigeria.
The directive was issued in a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, on Thursday, November 7, 2024.
According to the statement, the IGP emphasised that the black bands are a mark of respect and honor for the late General Lagbaja, who served as the Chief of Army Staff until his death on November 5, 2024, at the age of 56, after battling a prolonged illness.
The IGP’s statement read, “Following the demise of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun 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 demonstrated gallantry, dedication, and passion in combating violent crimes and insurgency in Nigeria. He was a great leader who deserves to be honored by all means.”
The statement concluded with a prayer for the late General: “May the soul of the late COAS rest in peace.”
The death of Lt. Gen. Lagbaja has deeply saddened the nation, with President Bola Tinubu expressing his condolences and directing that flags be flown at half-mast across the country for the next seven days.
The presidential directive, announced on November 6, was communicated through a statement from Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy.
Lagbaja, appointed as Chief of Army Staff by President Tinubu on June 19, 2023, was known for his leadership and decisive actions in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against terrorism, insurgency, and other forms of violent extremism.
His death has left a significant void in the country’s military leadership.
Tribute from the Police Force
In addition to the police officers’ display of mourning through black bands, the Nigeria Police Force has also expressed its condolences for the loss of a national hero. Many within the force hailed the late general’s commitment to the country’s security, noting that his leadership had a profound impact on the stability of Nigeria’s military operations.
The seven-day mourning period will serve as a time of reflection on the late general’s contributions to the country, especially his tireless efforts in securing Nigeria from internal threats.
