Nigeria’s Police in Seven-Day Mourning for Army Chief, Lt. Gen. Lagbaja

 

Inspector General of Police - Kayode Egbetokun

The Nigeria Police Force has come together to pay homage to a national hero Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the late Chief of Army Staff. Following his sudden passing, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun issued a directive for officers and personnel across the country to wear black armbands for a full seven days. This symbolic gesture extends beyond the usual bounds of formal mourning; it’s a public salute to a man whose life was devoted to protecting the nation.


The directive, announced by the Force’s Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, has the entire police force in visible unity as they don black bands on their uniforms.


This small yet powerful symbol serves as a reminder to the public and fellow officers alike of the risks taken daily by those on the front lines. For the police, it’s a way to honor a figure who didn’t just command troops but inspired a spirit of resilience and dedication across Nigeria’s armed services.


Lt. Gen. Lagbaja was more than a title or a position. Known for his unwavering commitment in the face of Nigeria’s complex security challenges, he led with both heart and grit. 

His years in service were marked by a deep sense of duty, and his work against insurgency showcased not only his tactical skill but his deep-rooted desire to restore peace to communities caught in the crossfire of violence. With this tribute, the police force acknowledges that his loss is a collective one, felt by all who share in his mission.


In these seven days, the black bands become a sign of unity. Police officers from every corner of the country participate, reminding each other that in times of grief, they stand together. 

The band itself might seem like a minor symbol, but its message is loud: Lt. Gen. Lagbaja’s legacy lives on, not just in memory but in the daily commitment of every officer, solider, and citizen who strives for a safer Nigeria.


It’s moments like this that bring out the camaraderie within the police and military—two forces that, while distinct in their duties, are united in their ultimate goal. Lt. Gen. Lagbaja’s story is one of unyielding service, and through this small yet powerful gesture, his memory serves to inspire, reminding every officer that the road they walk was paved by those who dared to protect and serve before them.


Wearing the black band isn’t just about mourning; it’s about acknowledging the weight of their responsibility and honoring those who have upheld it with valor.


In this week of quiet reflection, every officer carrying that band knows they’re part of something larger. The Nigeria Police Force stands as one, paying tribute to the values Lt. Gen. Lagbaja held close: bravery, integrity, and an unshakeable commitment to Nigeria. In this somber moment, the force reflects on the legacy he left behind and reaffirms its own commitment to follow in his steps.