From Laide Raheem, Abeokuta
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday described the late Chief of General Staff (CGS) during the military era, Lt. General Oladipo Diya as a very resourceful military strategist, an epitome of courage, bravery, discipline and integrity who was selfless with his contribution and service to his fatherland.
Tinubu disclosed that as an accomplished military General, Diya gave his all for the protection of the territorial integrity of the country as well as preservation of unity of the country, saying that he left behind rich legacies of selflessness, utmost diligence and deep sense of dedication to generation coming behind.
The President, who was represented by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, stated this while speaking during the funeral service held for the late Diya at the Cathedral Church of St Paul, Odogbolu, Ogun State.
The Odogbolu, Ogun State-born General and one time military governor of Ogun State died on March 26 at the age of 79.
Tinubu explained that though the exit of Diya has no doubt been painful but the country and the people left behind could always take solace in the fact that he served the country dutifully well and was an exemplary leader and shining example in the pursuit of truth, integrity and all the noble ideals that have helped to preserve the unity of the country.
He said the deceased would always be remembered for introducing lots of reforms while in the army such as those that are tailored towards improving on the welfare of the soldiers as well as that of the community service, which has helped to improve relations between the soldiers and their host communities.
Tinubu said, “Lt Gen Oladipo Oyeyinka Diya was very dedicated to preserving peace and territorial integrity of the country, He rose through the ranks to be Chief of General Staff. He was a strategic thinker with ability to make swift decisions. He contributed to quelling uprising that could hamper the security of the country and Africa. His sense of diligence and selflessness remains a point of reference to those coming behind and we can always take solace in his pursuit of truth, integrity and unity of our country.”
Speaking in his capacity as the governor of the state, Dapo Abiodun, described Diya as an illustrious son and another gift to the nation, urging the widow of the late General, Mrs Josehine Diya and the children to be comforted by the fact that the deceased left behind a very rich culture of selfless service and utmost love for his father land.