Buhari, Sanwo-Olu, Abiodun, Bode George, others salute Diya’s love, belief and loyalty to Nigeria

IBRAHIM QUADRI 

President Muhammadu Buhari mourned the passing on Sunday of Lt. General Oladipo Diya, (retd), who served as Chief of  General Staff from 1993 to 1997 and Vice Chairman of the Provisional Ruling Council in 1994.

The President also paid tribute to Gen. Diya’s bold and courageous career in the Nigeria military and dedicated service to the country as General Officer Commanding, 82 Division, Commandant, of National War College (1991–1993), Chief of Defence Staff and Military Governor of Ogun State from January 1984 to August 1985.

According to a statement by Adesina Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity),

Buhari “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”.

Born on April 3, 1944, he would have been 79 years in about eight days.

Diya, who previously served as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), was also Military Governor of Ogun State from January 1984 to August 1985. He served in the Nigerian Army from 1964 to 1997.

His death was announced on Sunday morning by Prince Oyesinmilola Diya, a lawyer, on behalf of the family.

In a statement, Diya was said to have died in the early hours of Sunday.

The statement reads in part: “Our dear Daddy passed onto glory in the early hours of 26th March 2023.

“Please keep us in your prayers as we mourn his demise in this period. Further announcements will be made public in due course.”

Diya hailed from Odogbolu, Ogun State. He served under Abacha as CGS until his arrest for treason in 1997.

Abacha died in office on June 8, 1998 and General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who succeeded Abacha, subsequently released him.

In his reaction, former Ogun State Governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, said a great Nigerian, who played active roles in the affairs of the nation, was gone.

Daniel, who is senator-elect for Ogun East Senatorial District in the 10th National Assembly on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), said, in a statement, that “Ogun State has lost an illustrious son”.

It reads: “The sad demise of General Oladipo Diya (rtd) is a landmark in the history of our country.

“He played his part as a military strategist and Chief of General Staff and his stabilising role during the military era will never be forgotten.

“General Diya, as Military Administrator of Ogun State, was exemplary in the enforcement of the War Against Indiscipline with a focus on a cleaner environment. He will surely be missed by a lot of people for different reasons and especially for his statesmanship.

“I share in the grief of his family members and by friends and associates. I had close personal experiences and relationships with General Diya in and out of public office.