The Ilobu community in Osun State has formally requested that the Federal Government immortalize the late Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, who was the former Chief of Army Staff (COAS).
The community, which serves as the headquarters of Irepodun local government area, praised the late General Lagbaja as a “worthy son” who significantly contributed to both the Nigerian Army and the entire nation.
This appeal was made by Pastor Olufemi Salako, President of the Ilobu-Asake Development Union (IADU), during a press briefing held to announce preparations for this year’s Ilobu Day celebration.
Salako disclosed that the 2024 Ilobu Day celebration was postponed last year to honor the late COAS, and this year’s event will feature special tributes dedicated to him.
Lamenting Lagbaja’s legacy within the town, Salako expressed regret that there is currently nothing in Ilobu to commemorate the General’s life and accomplishments.
He stated, “If you visit our town today, there is nothing to indicate that we produced a son like Lagbaja. It is unfortunate that visitors have no monument to show that our town produced such a prominent figure.”
Salako emphasized the need to honor him: “We need to show the world that he did extraordinarily well for this state and the country at large, so we want him to be immortalized.”
The IADU President confirmed that they are in ongoing discussions with both the Federal Government and the Nigerian Army to establish a project or monument in Lagbaja’s honor.
He noted that although the Nigerian Army built a modern hospital in Ilobu before Lagbaja’s passing, it was not named after him. Salako suggested that naming that facility or another key infrastructure after the late General would serve as a lasting tribute to his service and help inspire future generations in Ilobu.
🤝 Call for Investment and Crisis Relief
The community also used the occasion to urge investors to return to Ilobu, following a severe communal clash involving the Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin communities that caused widespread destruction.
Salako reported that property estimated to be worth over N2 billion was destroyed during the conflict, which left numerous families displaced and businesses ruined.
He remarked, “While we believe that the era of commotions has gone, the scars are still there. Over N2 billion worth of properties destroyed remain in ruins.”
The community leader also appealed directly to Governor Ademola Adeleke for aid to assist those affected by the crisis.
He added, “We call on Governor Ademola Adeleke to help us in providing succour to those seriously affected by the crisis. Businesses were devastated, and many are yet to recover. Many families became homeless due to the crisis.”
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