Retired Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai, former Chief of Army Staff, has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of his former colleague and successor, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja. Describing Lagbaja as a model of discipline and devotion, Buratai commended the late Army Chief’s commitment to service, honoring his lasting contributions to the Nigerian Army.
Buratai highlighted Lagbaja’s exemplary qualities, his dedication to his duties, and the transformative impact he had on the military. Reflecting on their years of service together, Buratai praised Lagbaja’s leadership as a cornerstone of the Army’s growth into a well-regarded institution. “General Lagbaja’s legacy will endure through the lives he touched and the nation he served with dedication and commitment,” Buratai said.
Lagbaja had a distinguished military career, marked by crucial roles and achievements. He served under Buratai’s leadership as Commander of the 9 Brigade in Ikeja and the 2 Brigade in Uyo. His stellar performance in these positions earned him the rank of Major General, after which he was appointed Director of Campaign Plan at the Army Headquarters in 2020. Buratai conveyed his heartfelt condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the late General’s family, and the Nigerian Army.
Family’s Grief and Unresolved Concerns
The loss of General Lagbaja has deeply affected his family, particularly the family patriarch, Pa Tajudeen Lagbaja, who expressed regret over helping his nephew enroll in the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA).
Reflecting on the tragic outcome, Pa Tajudeen shared that had he known the military path would end in such sorrow, he would not have facilitated Lagbaja’s entry into the armed forces. “If I knew his life would be cut short, I would not have obtained the NDA form for him,” he lamented.
The elder Lagbaja’s grief underscores the profound sense of loss felt by the entire family. He spoke of his close relationship with Taoreed, whom he regarded as his own child, and how the sudden loss has left a void that cannot easily be filled.
“The death that took Taoreed Lagbaja ought to have taken me, his father’s younger brother,” Pa Tajudeen reflected, acknowledging the sorrow left behind. Despite the pain, he expressed gratitude to God, accepting the passing as destiny, though he mourns the unfulfilled promises Taoreed made to the family.
Allegations of Diabolical Influences Amid Land Dispute
Lagbaja’s death has sparked concerns and suspicions within his family, some of whom believe that his passing may be linked to unresolved disputes in his hometown of Ilobu, Irepodun Local Government Area, Osun State.
According to family sources, a longstanding land dispute erupted in 2023, following a proposal by the Nigerian Army to establish a hospital in the community. This proposal allegedly led to tensions, which the family suspects may have influenced Lagbaja’s fate.
While details remain unclear, the family’s concerns highlight the complexities surrounding his death and underscore the need for further investigation to clarify the circumstances. Some members of the community have suggested that diabolical influences may have played a role, though no formal evidence has emerged to support these claims.
Honoring a Legacy of Service
As family members and colleagues mourn Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, they remember his numerous contributions to his community and country. Pa Tajudeen noted that the late General funded essential infrastructure, including boreholes in his father’s compound and other areas in Ilobu, improving access to water for local residents. The family head emphasized that Lagbaja’s contributions to the community will never be forgotten.
In the wake of this tragic loss, Buratai and the Nigerian Army have pledged to honor Lagbaja’s legacy. His dedication to his duties, both on and off the battlefield, remains a source of pride and inspiration.
