In a mark of respect for the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, police officers across Nigeria will wear black bands for seven days.
The directive was issued by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, in a statement released on Thursday, signed by Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi.
The IGP stated, “In honor of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, I have directed that officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force wear black bands throughout the 7-day mourning period.” The statement continued, “This is to pay tribute to a great leader who dedicated his life to the fight against violent crimes and insurgency in Nigeria, showing unparalleled gallantry and commitment.”
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday in Lagos after a period of illness, though the details of his illness were not disclosed. President Bola Tinubu has extended his condolences to the deceased’s family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this period of mourning.