The pioneer Field Commander of Osun Amotekun, Amitolu Shittu, has called on President Bola Tinubu to honour the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, by intensifying efforts to combat criminal activities across Nigeria.
In a statement released on Friday, Shittu expressed his condolences to the Lagbaja family, the Ilobu community, and the people of Osun State over the tragic passing of the Army Chief.
Shittu emphasized that the best way to preserve Lagbaja’s legacy would be through a strong, ongoing commitment to tackling the nation’s security challenges, particularly banditry and related criminal acts, according to Daily Post.
He stressed that Tinubu’s leadership in this area could serve as a fitting tribute to Lagbaja’s service to the nation.
The fight against banditry, Shittu said, remains crucial for the stability of Nigeria. He urged the President to leverage his office’s authority to ensure lasting peace and security. Shittu also reminded Nigerians of their collective responsibility to safeguard the future of the country, noting that the nation’s well-being is tied to the successful defeat of terrorism and criminality.
Reflecting on the late General’s dedication, Shittu described Lagbaja as a leader who was always willing to be on the frontlines with his troops. He acknowledged that while the late Army Chief was expected to continue his work, fate had other plans.
Shittu emphasized that the best way to honour Lagbaja’s memory would be for the country to emerge victorious in its battle against criminal elements.
Shittu urged the military not to be demoralized by Lagbaja’s passing but to remain focused on their mission of protecting the nation. He also called on the President and the military to continue building on the progress made in the fight against insurgents and other criminal forces, ensuring that the country remains secure for its citizens and the economy to thrive.
Meanwhile, the Olobu of Ilobu, Oba Ashiru Olatoye Olaniyan, has appealed to President Tinubu to release the body of the late Lt. Gen. Lagbaja for burial in Ilobu, in accordance with Islamic customs. In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olufemi Salako, the monarch expressed his sorrow over the loss of the Army Chief, describing it as a great tragedy for both Ilobu and Nigeria.
Oba Olaniyan called on the President and military authorities to facilitate the return of Lagbaja’s body to Ilobu for an Islamic burial. He also requested that the late Army Chief not be buried in Abuja, in line with the wishes of his family and the community.
“It is our joint responsibility to put our lives on the line for the development of our nation. We do not have any other country to call our home. The fight against terrorism is one the nation must win. President Tinubu should take heart; we will work together to build a better country.
“Lt. Gen. Lagbaja did his best for this country, and he was expected to continue the good work he was doing with his troops, but the Creator had other plans. President Tinubu should not grow weary due to Lagbaja’s death.
“The best way to honor this remarkable late COAS is to win the war against banditry and ensure that every act of criminality is nipped in the bud. The President and the Army should sustain the gains and strengthen the fight against the enemies of Nigeria.
“Lagbaja’s death is a monumental loss to Osun, Ilobu—his hometown—and Nigeria as a whole. He was a passionate and dedicated officer who would not hesitate to travel to the frontlines and stay with his troops. His men should not be demoralized by his sudden passing,” Shittu said.
He added, “The Army should do everything to keep Nigeria united. They should eradicate criminal acts and ensure the country remains safe for the economy to thrive. May God grant the late Army Chief eternal rest.
“To the immediate family of the late COAS, his community, Ilobu, Osun State, President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Army, and all of us connected to the late Lagbaja, may God grant us the fortitude to bear the loss. Amen.”
