Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has instructed officers and personnel of the Nigeria Police Force to wear black armbands for a seven-day mourning period in honor of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja. The announcement came in a statement on Thursday from Force Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi.

According to Adejobi, the directive pays tribute to Lagbaja’s gallantry, dedication, and commitment to fighting insurgency and violent crimes across Nigeria. The statement reads: “Following the passing of Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has ordered all officers and personnel of the Nigeria Police Force to wear black armbands throughout the 7-day mourning period. This tribute honors a remarkable leader who demonstrated unwavering commitment to the nation’s safety.”

Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, appointed by President Bola Tinubu on June 19, 2023, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 56 after a prolonged illness. In addition to the police directive, President Tinubu ordered national flags to be flown at half mast across the country for seven days to mark Lagbaja’s passing. The directive was conveyed through a statement signed by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

READ ALSO: President Tinubu Orders Flags to Be Flown at Half-Mast in Honor of Lagbaja