Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The lawmaker representing Kwara Central in the National Assembly and Turaki of Ilorin Emirate, Senator Saliu Mustapha, has expressed grief over the demise of Hajia Dupe Ibrahim (nee Akanbi), the wife of the retired Chief of Defence Staff, Rear Admiral Ola Saad Ibrahim.

Hajia Dupe Ibrahim, a revered daughter of the Ilorin Emirate, passed away in Abuja and had since been laid to rest in accordance with Islamic injunctions.

In a condolence message personally signed by the Senator, he extended his heartfelt condolences to the Orio-Okoh family and all those affected by her demise. He said her departure would leave a significant void within both her family and the broader Ilorin community, where she was widely respected.

The Senator also conveyed his deepest sympathy to her husband, Rear Admiral Ola Saad Ibrahim (Rtd), Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu Gambari; the Chairman of the National League of Veteran Journalists in Kwara State, Alhaji Mohammed Tunde Akanbi; the deceased mother and the entire Ilorin Emirate.

He noted that Hajia Dupe was a cherished and dedicated daughter of the Emirate, known for her commitment to family, community and faith.

Describing the news as a profound shock, Senator Mustapha said Hajia Dupe’s legacy as one of the “star daughters” of the Ilorin Emirate would endure, noting her kindness, strength, and unwavering support for causes dear to her heart.

The Senator prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the deceased eternal rest, and comfort the bereaved family, especially her husband, children, aged mother, and siblings during this challenging time.

The family of the late Akwa Ibom State First Lady, Pastor Patience Umo Eno, has formally announced her funeral arrangements, with the burial scheduled for November 29, 2024. The funeral will be held at her hometown in Ikot Ekpene Udo, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area. Governor Umo Eno, along with the bereaved family and state government, finalized the arrangements to commemorate her life and legacy.

Enobong Uwah, Secretary to the State Government and Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, expressed the family’s gratitude for the outpouring of support received nationwide. He also encouraged friends and supporters to join in honoring Pastor Eno’s life through the planned events.

In memory of Pastor Eno’s faith and service, a series of events will begin on November 20 with the opening of the Mourning House. Condolence visits will continue until November 26, followed by a Night of Worship and Tributes on November 22 at the International Christian Worship Centre in Uyo. Dr. Frank Ekpenyong, Senior Special Assistant on ICT, remarked, “Her Excellency was a beacon of hope, and this night of worship honors the light she brought to countless lives.”

Condolences can be sent to Condolencesforfirstlady@akwaibomstate.gov.ng by November 11, 2024, and inquiries can be directed to Hon. Otobong Edemidiong at +234 806 930 3636.

The Presidency has announced the Passing of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.

Presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga stated in a press release that Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff, died at the age 56.

Onanuga stated that Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness.

Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu.

His military career began when he enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987, and commissioning on September 19, 1992, as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps.
Lagbaja was a member of the 39th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy, NDA.

The presudency described the late Army Chief, as having demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and committed having served as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.

“He played pivotal roles in numerous internal security operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States”, Onanuga said.

Lagbaja was an alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, demonstrating his dedication to professional growth and excellence in military leadership.

Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his beloved wife, Mariya, and their two children.

“President Tinubu expresses his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time. He wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honours his significant contributions to the nation”.