By Stella Odueme
The Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, has expressed sadness over the demise of the former Chief of Army Staff, Admiral Ibrahim Ogohi CFR, who passed away in the early hours of Sunday, June 30, 2024, at the age of 76.
Prince Audu, in a heartfelt condolence message on Sunday, signed by Lizzy Okoji, his Special Assistant on Media, described the death of the former Defence Chief of Nigeria as a great loss to him, his immediate family, the Igala nation, of whom he was an elder statesman, the people of Kogi State and Nigeria.
He stated that the late Admiral Ogohi, who is an in-law and was like a father to him, will be greatly missed as he prayed that Almighty Allah grant him Aljannah firdaus, even as he called for prayers for the family at this time of grief.
“It is with a heavy heart that we woke up to the rude shock of the death of the former Chief of Defence Staff, Admiral Ibrahim Ogohi. His death is a huge loss to our family and country.
“As a man of integrity, discipline, and courage, the late Admiral Ibrahim Ogohi was the first Naval Officer to become the Chief of Defence Staff of Nigeria from 1999 to 2003. Before then, he had held other high-ranking and commanding positions in the Nigerian Navy and military, which he served with great distinction.
“He will be remembered for his positive impact and contributions to the country, and as one of the sons of Igala Land who brought the Igala kingdom to the fore in Nigeria’s leadership structure.
“Although a sad loss, I want us all to take solace in the fact that he has gone to rest in the bosom of Almighty Allah.
“My heartfelt condolences go to his wife, Hajiya Malama Fatima Ogohi, his immediate and extended family as well as the Igala nation. I pray that Almighty Allah grant him Aljannah firdaus,” Prince Audu stated.
