The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed that officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force wear black bands for a seven-day mourning period in memory of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
The police chief issued the decision in a statement made on Thursday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi.
Adejobi stated that the directive is intended to honour Lagbaja, who showed valour, dedication, and enthusiasm in the fight against insurgency in the country during his lifetime.
The statement reads, “Following the demise of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has ordered officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force to wear black bands throughout the 7-day mourning period.
“This 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. He was a great leader who deserves to be honoured by all means.
“May the soul of the late COAS rest in peace.”
Chronicle NG reports that the late army chief, appointed by President Bola Tinubu on June 19, 2023, died on Tuesday at the age of 56 night after a prolonged illness.
Following his death, the president decided on Wednesday that Nigeria’s national flags be flown at half mast for seven days across the country to commemorate the late army chief.
The President’s instruction was communicated via a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, headlined “Announcement of the Passing of Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.”
