President Muhammadu Buhari has described retired Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Joshua Dogonyaro, who died yesterday, May 13, as a “legendary general.”
Dogonyaro was he, that read the coup speech overthrowing Buhari in 1985, ushering in Ibrahim Babangida as military Head of State.
In a message of condolence, President Buhari said that the death of Dogonyaro is “a great loss not only to the Nigerian military, but also to the country because of his patriotic sacrifices in defence of its unity and territorial integrity.”
“The death of Dogonyaro comes as a great shock to me because as a soldier, I know what it means to lose such an officer and a gentleman who gave his best in the service of the country.”
Buhari said that Dogonyaro was a thoroughbred soldier who had professionally distinguished himself in the course of his military career.
“Laying down one’s life for the country is one of the greatest sacrifices any citizen can make to his country. General Dogonyaro’s incalculable contributions will be remembered for years to come.”
President Buhari extended deepest condolences to the Government and people of Plateau State on the passing of “this legendary general.”
