Governors mourn as Nigeria buries Army Chief, others

The Nigeria Governors Forum on Saturday expressed shock and disbelief over the death of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, who died in a plan crash along with other senior military officers, in Kaduna, on Friday.

Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum and Governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, in a statement titled, ‘Demise of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru,’ in Abuja, on Saturday, said the NGF received news of the death of the senior and junior military officers as well as members of the crew of the ill-fated aircraft with shock.

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He said, “The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) received with deep shock and utter disbelief the death of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, in a plane crash at the Kaunda International Airport on Friday evening.

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“Lt. Gen. Attahiru, who was appointed Chief of Army Staff on 26th January 2021 by President Muhammadu Buhari, was an exemplary soldier whose zeal, dedication and professionalism inspired his men in the ongoing war against terrorism and to secure the peace and stability of the nation.

“Already, all well-meaning Nigerians are enjoying a renewed confidence in the army, while the soldiers themselves are showing appreciation for their leaderships’ encouraging impetus in boosting their morale on the battlefields.

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“Our thoughts are with the families of the entire crew members and others on the entourage of the Chief who lost their lives in the unfortunate plane crash. They were worthy and dedicated soldiers who devotedly fought for our country on the battlefield. May the souls of these heroes rest in peace.”

The governors said they like most Nigerians will miss the gallant soldiers. They prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed and that God should grant the families they left behind the fortitude to bear the loss.