'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Chief of Defence Staff, Admiral Ibrahim Ogohi, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 75.
In a heartfelt condolence message to Admiral Ogohi's family, Governor Ododo lauded the late admiral as an illustrious son of Kogi State and one of Nigeria’s finest military officers, who played a pivotal role in maintaining the nation's unity amid various challenges.
“Admiral Ibrahim Ogohi was an excellent military officer and a statesman who was committed to the unity and peaceful coexistence among the people of Nigeria until his last days on earth,” Governor Ododo stated. He highlighted Admiral Ogohi's remarkable military career, marked by significant sacrifices to keep Nigeria united, and noted his continued contributions as an elder statesman in his retirement, particularly towards the development of Kogi State.
Governor Ododo emphasized the substantial loss to both Nigeria and Kogi State, acknowledging Admiral Ogohi as a fine military officer and a rare statesman. He praised Ogohi’s impact and sacrifices, remarking that Kogi State has lost one of its foremost statesmen who greatly valued the well-being of its people. He also mentioned how he would miss Admiral Ogohi's wise counsel during consultations on the policies and programs of his administration.
The governor prayed for the peaceful repose of Admiral Ogohi’s soul and urged his family to take solace in his outstanding records and contributions as a military officer and statesman.
Admiral Ibrahim Ogohi made history as the first naval officer to become Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, serving from 1999 to 2003 under former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Born in November 1948, he passed away in the early hours of Sunday, June 30, 2024, and has been laid to rest in his hometown of Okura Olafia, Dekina local government area of Kogi State.
.jpeg)
