Table of Contents
- Appeal to Immortalise General Lagbaja
- Legacy of General Lagbaja
- Call for Investors
- Appeal for Assistance
The Ilobu community in Osun State has urged the Federal Government to honor the late Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, former Chief of Army Staff.
The community praised General Lagbaja as a distinguished son who made significant contributions to both the Nigerian Army and the nation.
As the headquarters of the Irepodun local government area of Osun State, the community made this request through Pastor Olufemi Salako, the President of the Ilobu-Asake Development Union (IADU), during a press conference to announce the preparations for this year's Ilobu Day celebration.
Salako disclosed that the 2024 edition of the Ilobu Day celebration has been postponed in tribute to the late Chief of Army Staff, who passed away last year, and that this year's event would feature special honors for him.
Reflecting on Lagbaja’s legacy, Salako expressed disappointment that there is currently nothing in the town to commemorate his life and achievements.
“When you visit our town today, there is no indication that we have produced a son like Lagbaja. It is unfortunate that there is nothing to showcase to visitors that our town has given rise to such a prominent figure.
“We need to demonstrate to the world that he has made extraordinary contributions to this state and the nation, so we wish for him to be immortalized,” he stated.
The IADU President mentioned that discussions are ongoing with the Federal Government and the Nigerian Army to create a project or monument in honor of Lagbaja.
“We are still in talks with the Federal Government and the Army to undertake a project for us. Although prior to Lagbaja’s passing, the Nigerian Army community constructed a modern hospital for us, it was not named in his honor,” Salako clarified.
He further noted that naming this facility or another significant infrastructure after the late General would serve as a lasting tribute to his service and inspire future generations in Ilobu.
The community also took this opportunity to invite investors back to Ilobu following the devastating communal clash between the Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin communities, which resulted in extensive destruction.
According to Salako, property valued at over N2 billion was lost during the conflict, leaving many families displaced and businesses in shambles.
“While we believe that the period of turmoil has ended, the scars remain. Over N2 billion worth of properties destroyed still lie in ruins,” he remarked.
He also called on Governor Ademola Adeleke to assist the victims of the crisis.
“We urge Governor Ademola Adeleke to provide support to those severely impacted by the crisis. Many businesses were devastated, and many have yet to recover. Numerous families became homeless as a result of the conflict,” he added.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Ilobu community seeking to immortalize General Lagbaja?
The Ilobu community believes that General Lagbaja made significant contributions to the Nigerian Army and the nation, and they wish to honor him with a lasting tribute that reflects his legacy.
What plans are in place to commemorate General Lagbaja?
Discussions are currently ongoing with the Federal Government and the Nigerian Army to establish a project or monument in General Lagbaja's honor, as well as to name significant infrastructure after him.
What impact did the recent communal clash have on the Ilobu community?
The communal clash resulted in the destruction of property valued at over N2 billion, leaving numerous families displaced and businesses severely affected.
What assistance is being sought from Governor Ademola Adeleke?
The Ilobu community is appealing to Governor Ademola Adeleke to provide support and aid to the victims of the crisis, as many families lost their homes and businesses were destroyed.
