The Federal Executive Council (FEC), on Sunday, mourned the death of Nigeria’s former number two citizen under the Sani Abacha military regime, Lt. Gen. Oladipo Diya, who passed on at 79 on Sunday.
A statement on Sunday by the Director of Information in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Willie Bassey, FEC described Diya as a seasoned military officer with admirable administrative capabilities, which he manifested in the various roles he acted on behalf of the Nigerian government.
The statement, which was authorised by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, also expressed the Council’s condolences to the family and associates of the departed former Chief of General Staff, as well as the government and people of Ogun State.
“The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha (CFR,) on behalf of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), has recieved with shock the death of the former Chief of General Staff, Lt. General Oladipo Diya (rtd), which sad event occurred on Sunday, 26th March, 2023.
“Lt. General Diya (rtd) served as the Chief of General Staff to the late head of state, General Sani Abacha.
“SGF describes General Diya as a seasoned military officer with admirable administrative capabilities in his various functions as the Military Governor of Ogun State (1984 – 1985), Chief of Defence Staff, and the Chief of General Staff (1993 – 1997); as well as a notable statesman who made invaluable contributions to nation-building.
“FEC condoles with the government and people of Ogun State, his family and friends, and prays to God to grant the soul of the deceased eternal rest,” the statement read.
Also on Sunday, President Muhammadu Buhari mourned the death of Lt Gen Diya.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, President Buhari paid tribute to the former number two man’s love and loyalty to the country, which he served in several capacities, including on the front lines, to protect its unity.
The statement reads: “President Muhammadu Buhari mourns the passing on Sunday of Lt. General Oladipo Diya, who served as Chief of General Staff from 1993 to 1997 and Vice Chairman of the Provisional Ruling Council in 1994.
“The President pays tribute to General Diya’s bold and courageous career in the Nigeria military and dedicated service to the country as General Officer Commanding, 82 Division, Commandant, National War College (1991–1993), Chief of Defence Staff and Military Governor of Ogun State from January 1984 to August 1985.
“The President 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.”