By CHARLES IWUOHA

Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, has described the death of the former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Toareed Lagbaja, as a colossal loss to the Nigerian Army and the nation.

Nwifuru said the late Army Chief throughout his career, demonstrated courage, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to safeguarding the Nation.

This was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Governor?s Chief press Secretary, Dr Monday Uzor, and made available to newsmen in Abakaliki.

?It is with a heavy heart and profound sorrow that I learnt of the passing of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Taoreed Lagbaja who died at 56.

?It is sad that the nation mourns the loss of a true patriot and leader whose service and dedication to the Armed Forces and to the protection of our homeland remain immeasurable especially in the wake of terrorism, banditry and armed conflict in some parts of the country,? Governor Nwifuru said.

According to the Governor, the vision and leadership of Lt GenLagbaja strengthened the Nigerian military and inspired countless men and women to serve with honor and integrity.

While consoling the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the death of theate Army Chief, Nwifuru said: ?The legacy of service which characterised the eventful tenure of the late COAS will endure in the hearts of those who knew him, and his sacrifice will not be forgotten.?

The Governor who also extended his condolences to the Lagbaja family, urged mourners to remember the late Army helmsman not only as a dedicated leader ? but as a compassionate officer who touched the lives of all who had the privilege to work with him.