The Member representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Ibe Osonwa, has expressed shock over the death of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja.
The lawmaker described Lagbajaโs passing as a loss to the nation and extended his condolences to the Nigerian Armed Forces and the Nigerian Army.
Osonwaโs message of condolence was conveyed in a statement he personally signed and released on Wednesday.
He also extended his sympathies to the immediate family of the late COAS, praying for the repose of his soul.
President Bola Tinubu announced Lagbajaโs death in a statement signed by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday.
It was reported that Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness, though the nature of the illness was not disclosed.
Lagbaja, who was 56, served as Chief of Army Staff for one year and four months, following his appointment by President Tinubu in June 2023.
His military career began when he enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987.
He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on 19 September 1992 as part of the 39th Regular Course.