Okowa, George mourn ex-CGS, Oladipo Diya

Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, yesterday, commiserated with Ogun State Government, former Chief of General Staff, Lt.-Gen. Oladipo Diya’s family in Odogbolu and people of the state on the passing of the former CGS.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, Okowa also condoled with Odogbolu community, saying that the news of Diya’s death was saddening, especially as the nation is currently in dire need of the wise counsel of well-meaning Nigerians, including the deceased.

He, however, said that the memories of the departed General would remain immortal, and urged Nigerians and Yoruba race in particular, to remember him for his illustrious contributions to unity of Nigeria and sanctity of its sovereignty.

ALSO, former Deputy National Chairman (South-West) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bode George, yesterday, mourned the passing of Diya.

In a statement yesterday, George, who was Principal Staff Officer in the Presidential Villa when Diya was the CGS, stated: “The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away. May God give him eternal rest and may his memory be a blessing to his family and friends. He ran his race to the best of his calling and we must leave the rest for the pages of history. “Good night Sir. Till the resurrection morning when we shall meet to part no more. May the angels sing you to your resting place. My deepest condolences to the family, especially Simi.”

“As Deltans, we are extremely proud of the outstanding contributions of Gen. Diya to the Nigerian Army where he served in different capacities from 1964 to 1997, including as Vice Chairman, Provincial Ruling Council in 1994,” the statement stated.

“He was also Military Governor of Ogun State from January, 1984 to August 1985.

“Gen. Diya had an illustrious military career and served the nation with full dedication and commitment to duty,” the statement stated.

He prayed to Almighty God to grant the soul of the deceased eternal rest.