Buhari, Sanwo-Olu pay tribute to Gen Diya
President Muhammadu Buhari mourns the passing on Sunday of Lt. General Oladipo Diya, who served as Chief of General Staff from 1993 to 1997 and Vice Chairman of the Provisional Ruling Council in 1994.
The President pays tribute to General Diya’s bold and courageous career in the Nigeria military and dedicated service to the country as General Officer Commanding, 82 Division, Commandant, National War College (1991–1993), Chief of Defence Staff and Military Governor of Ogun State from January 1984 to August 1985.
The President recalls that Diya was known for his brilliance, exceptional organizational skills and discipline, and he displayed these virtues in the important roles he held in office as a military officer.
The President salutes the former Chief of General Staff for his love, belief and loyalty to the country he cherished so much and fought gallantly on the frontlines to defend her unity.
On behalf of the Federal Government, the President extends heartfelt condolences to Diya’s family, friends and colleagues.
President Buhari prays that General Diya’s soul finds rest with his Creator, and may his contributions to the nation never be forgotten.
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described the death of Diya, a former Chief of Defence Staff and ex-Military Governor of Ogun State, as a great loss to the country.
Governor Sanwo-Olu in a condolence message issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, described the late Diya, as a gallant soldier and elder statesman, who served the country meritoriously as a military officer, Governor of Ogun State and Chief of General Staff.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also commiserated with Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and the entire people of the State, especially indigenes of Odogbolu, on the demise of their illustrious son.
He said: “On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, I want to express my sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, the Nigerian Army and associates of the late Lt.-General Oladipo Diya, over the death of the former Chief of General Staff and Vice Chairman of the Provisional Ruling Council.
“I also commiserate with my brother, Governor Dapo Abiodun, the people of Odogbolu town and Ogun State over the death of their former governor and illustrious son. I pray that God will give them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
“The death of Lt.-General Oladipo Diya is a colossal loss to the country. He made lots of positive impact and contribution during his lifetime to the growth and development of Nigeria, especially in the Nigeria Army.
“He fought, along with several other patriots tirelessly for a united Nigeria during his days in the Nigerian Army, especially during the Civil War. He also held positions in the Armed Forces and rose to the position of the Chief of General Staff, (de facto Vice President of Nigeria) under the late Head of State, General Sani Abacha.
“I pray that God will grant him eternal rest and give his immediate family, friends, associates and the people of Ogun State, the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”
