‘Our Son Was Killed Diabolically, I Regret Obtaining NDA Form for Him’ – Family Head of Late COAS

The family of the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, has expressed deep regret over their decision to obtain a Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) form for him, with the family head alleging that his death was caused by a diabolical act tied to a land dispute.

In an emotional statement, Pa Tajudeen Lagbaja, the head of the late COAS’s extended family, revealed that he was the one who had obtained the NDA form for his nephew, Lt. General Lagbaja. Reflecting on the tragedy, he lamented, “If I had known that he would die before me, I would not have done it. I regret obtaining the form for him, but it is destiny.”

The family, still reeling from the shock of losing their illustrious son, alleged that his untimely death was linked to a land dispute in the Ilobu community in Osun State. The dispute emerged in 2023 when the Nigerian Army planned to build a hospital in the area, which they believe may have led to dark forces targeting the late COAS.

Pa Tajudeen described the late General as more than a relative—he considered him a son. He said, “The death that took my nephew should have been mine. He was like a son to me. He constructed a borehole in his father’s compound and worked on several projects in the community. We can never forget him, and we are greatly bereaved.”

Lt. General Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a brief illness, as announced by President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. The late Army Chief, appointed COAS in June 2023, had a distinguished career, serving in several high-profile security operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue and Lafiya Dole in Borno. His service was particularly noted for his commitment to tackling terrorism and insurgency in Nigeria.

In his tribute, President Tinubu expressed profound sadness, praising Lagbaja’s decades of service to the country. “General Lagbaja was a dedicated servant of the nation. His loss is deeply felt across the Nigerian Armed Forces and the nation at large,” the President said.

Governor Ahmed Ododo of Kogi State also expressed his shock at the passing of Lt. General Lagbaja, describing his death as a “huge loss” to the country, especially at a time when Nigeria’s fight against insecurity had gained traction. Governor Ododo lauded the late COAS’s courage and determination in battling terrorism.

The late COAS’s death has sparked an outpouring of tributes. Former COAS Lt. General Tukur Buratai praised Lagbaja for his strategic leadership, noting that he had played a critical role in shaping the Nigerian Army into a formidable force. “He was a disciplined and dedicated officer whose passing leaves a void in the Army and in the nation,” Buratai said.

High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo, expressed his condolences, emphasizing the late COAS’s contributions to the security of Nigeria’s critical assets in the Niger Delta region. Tompolo remembered the late General for his vital role in safeguarding the nation’s oil and gas assets.

Members of the Nigerian legislature, including Rep. Okpolupm Etteh, also offered their sympathies, describing Lt. General Lagbaja as a patriot whose service and leadership had set a high standard within the military.

Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children. His legacy of discipline, commitment, and dedication to Nigeria’s security will continue to inspire future generations.