President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday eulogised the virtues of the late Chief of Defence Staff under the administration of late General Sani Abacha, Lt. Gen. Oladipo Diya, describing him as, “an epitome of courage and military strategist”.
The president, who spoke during the funeral service held in honour of Diya at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Odogbolu in Odogbolu local government area of Ogun State, described Diya as a “brave, disciplined and selfless” military officer who made tremendous contributions to the service of his fatherland.
Represented by Governor Dapo Abiodun, Tinubu further noted that the late Diya gave his all for the protection of the territorial integrity of the country, as well as the preservation of the unity of the country.
The late Ogun State born military general and one time military governor of Ogun State, died on March 26, 2023 at the age of 79.
Tinubu maintained that late General Diya left behind, “Rich legacies of selflessness, utmost diligence and deep sense of dedication to generations coming behind”.
Governor Abiodun described Diya as an illustrious son and another gift to the nation, urging his wife Mrs Josehine Diya and the children to be comforted by the fact that he left behind a very rich culture of selfless service and utmost love for his father land.
Bishop of Diocese of Ijebu Southwest Anglican Communion of Nigeria, Rt Revd Babatunde Ogunbanwo described Diya as a thorough bred and highly disciplined soldier who spent all his life to serve the country.
Former Head of State, Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd) described Diya as a dependable and professional colleague, saying he had always been the one taking over from him whenever he (Diya) was leaving such office for another. Gen. Diya was buried at his Odogbolu country home with full military honours.
