The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed all officers and personnel of the Nigeria Police Force to wear black bands for a seven-day mourning period in honor of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.

The directive, which was issued in a statement on Thursday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, is a tribute to the late general, who was known for his gallantry, dedication, and passionate commitment to combating insurgency and violent crimes in Nigeria.

The statement reads, “In light of the passing of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has instructed all officers and personnel of the Nigeria Police Force to wear black bands throughout the seven-day mourning period. This gesture is to honor and pay tribute to the late General, whose leadership and commitment to the fight against insurgency and violent crimes were exemplary. He was a leader of great courage and passion, deserving of our utmost respect.”

The statement concluded with a prayer for the repose of the late general’s soul: “May the soul of the late COAS rest in peace.”

Reports indicate that Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu on June 19, 2023, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 56 after a prolonged illness.

In response to his death, President Tinubu announced a seven-day period of national mourning, with the national flag to be flown at half-mast across the country. The announcement was made through a statement from the president’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, titled “Announcement of the Passing of Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.”