Honour Lagbaja by strengthening anti-banditry fight, ex-Amotekun commander urges Tinubu

The pioneer Field Commander of the Amotekun Corps in Osun State, Mr Amitolu Shittu, has urged President Bola Tinubu to remain resolute in the country’s fight against all forms of criminal activity to honour the memory of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja.

Shittu, while speaking with The PUNCH on Friday, condoled with the immediate family of the late COAS, the Ilobu community, and Osun State over the untimely passing of the late Army chief.

The former Amotekun boss, who urged Tinubu to do all within his power as President to end banditry, said that achieving this would be the best way to reward Lagbaja’s dedication to duty.

“It is our joint responsibility to put our lives on the line for the development of our nation. We do not have any other country to call our home. The fight against terrorism is one the nation must win. President Tinubu should take heart. We will work together to build a better country.

“Lt Gen Lagbaja did his best for this country, and he was expected to continue the good work he was doing with his troops, but the Creator had other plans. President Tinubu should not grow weary due to Lagbaja’s death.

“The best way to honour this remarkable late COAS is to win the war against banditry and ensure that every other act of criminality is nipped in the bud. The President and the Army should sustain the gains and strengthen the fight against the enemies of Nigeria.

“Lagbaja’s death is a monumental loss to Osun, Ilobu—his hometown—and Nigeria as a whole. He was a passionate and dedicated officer, who would not hesitate to travel to the frontlines and stay with his troops. His men should not be demoralised by his sudden passing,” Shittu said.

He added, “The Army should do everything to keep Nigeria united. They should eradicate criminal acts and ensure the country remains safe for the economy to thrive. May God grant the late Army chief eternal rest.

“For the immediate family of the late COAS, his community, Ilobu, Osun State, President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Army, and all of us connected to the late Lagbaja, may God grant us the fortitude to bear the loss. Amen.”