The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force to wear black bands for seven days in mourning the passing of the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
In a statement released on Thursday by Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, the IGP ordered that all officers observe the mourning period as a mark of respect for the fallen military leader, who was known for his dedication and gallantry in the fight against insurgency in Nigeria.”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,” the statement read.The IGP’s directive, according to Adejobi, is intended to honour the late General, who “showed gallantry, dedication, and passion for fighting violent crimes and insurgency in Nigeria.” He further described Lagbaja as a great leader deserving of such a tribute.”May the soul of the late COAS rest in peace,” the statement concluded.Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu on June 19, 2023, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 56 after a prolonged illness. His death has led to an outpouring of tributes and national mourning.In response to his passing, President Tinubu on Wednesday ordered that Nigeria’s national flags be flown at half-mast for seven days across the country. The directive was conveyed in a statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, titled *”Announcement of the Passing of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.”*
