By Ayomide Otitoju
In a show of respect and tribute to the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, police personnel across Nigeria will don black armbands for the next seven days, following a directive from the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun.
The announcement, conveyed in a statement by Force spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi, directed all officers and personnel to participate in the week-long mourning period. “In honor of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has instructed all members of the Nigeria Police Force to wear black armbands for seven days,” read the statement issued Thursday.
The IGP highlighted Lagbaja’s legacy of courage, dedication, and his relentless commitment to combating violent crime and insurgency, describing him as “a great leader who deserves to be honored.”
The Chief of Army Staff passed away on Tuesday in Lagos after a period of illness, though the nature of his illness was not disclosed. President Bola Tinubu offered his condolences to Lagbaja’s family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of a leader who made significant contributions to national security.
The police force joins the nation in mourning Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, paying homage to his life and service in securing the country.
