A big tree fell in Ilobu, the land of unrefined salt, “Obu-Otoyo.” When the tree fell, it led to vibrations that extended to every part of the country. Tributes and condolence messages poured in enmasse, and it came in speed, just like how congratulatory messages filled pages of newspapers in the country after he was declared the Chief of Army Staff.
As many tributes and condolence messages as there were, they could not match the spirit of the grieving people of Ilobu, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja’s hometown. They only desired their son. I saw a video where relatives of the late COAS were interviewed. If you don’t become emotional while watching the video, you can watch the killing of humans without being moved. It was a public outpouring of anguish.
I felt absolutely dejected after watching the video. I felt bitter and sad. His relatives did not help matters either. They cried scorching tears. They may have heard that tears bring relief, yet the more they cry, the deeper their anguish grows. They were utterly overcome by the heartbreaking and enormous loss.
When it was time for the Lagbajas’ family head to speak, he looked down as if he had lost everything and apologized profusely for collecting army recruits for Taoreed Lagbaja. A man who died while serving as Chief of Army Staff, the highest military position in the country. That is how death affects human thoughts. It occasionally denies humans the right to celebrate their lifetime achievements.
They didn’t let anything soothe them. The tributes, condolence notes, including Yoruba elders’ comments, and scriptures were ineffective in comforting them. Trees of value rarely stay in the forest for long, and the holy often pass away before their time. [Igi tó tọ́ kì í pẹ́ n’ígbó / a ti mú àwọn olódodo lọ láti yọ wọ́n kúrò nínú ibi]. Yorubas use powerful words to encourage bereaved people to come out of their corners. Unfortunately, none worked for the Lagbaja family.
Who would want a son of motor seller who ascended from captain to commander of Africa’s strongest army to die? I understand the anguish of Lagbaja’s relatives. Losing someone you admire or love is a pain that does not go away. We should allow them to mourn their loved one, but I’ve never read that tears mend damaged souls. Tears weakened the body, completing the soul’s destruction. The tragic death of Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja is a great loss for everyone.
As we grieve the loss of Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, one of the best soldiers to ever live, we must acknowledge his contributions to the Nigerian military. He valiantly served his beloved country until his death. He was an outstanding army chief who fought terrorism, insurgency, and banditry. During his term as Chief of Army Staff, the country experienced the lowest number of casualties in its war against insecurity. He was a gracious man who respected loyalty, commitment, and discipline. For Taoreed Lagbaja, service is a call he can not ignore.
As the body of Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja is lowered into the earth where we will all die, I remove my cap and salute the great general who was a loving husband, a responsible father, a good son, a prominent Ilobu native, and the ever-valiant COAS of the greatest army in Africa. Rest in power, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
