Date Fixed For Abacha’s Former Chief Of Staff’s Burial

The late former Chief of General Staff and second in command to Military dictator, Sani Abacha, Lt.-Gen. Oladipo Diya, will be buried on July 29, 2023.

Naija News reports that this was made known in a statement in Lagos on Wednesday by the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to Diya, Olawale Adekoya.

Adekoya disclosed that the funeral rites would commence on July 26, 2023 with a Night of Tributes, while service of songs and Christian wake would hold on July 27 and July 28 respectively.

It was gathered that the funeral rites would hold in the late Diya’s country home, Odogbolu, Ogun State.

“The final burial rites will hold on July 29 with the church service, interment, reception and final laying to rest, while the thanksgiving service will hold on July 30.

“Further details will be made available in due course,” Adekoya said.

Recall that President Muhammadu Buhari had said Oladipo Diya was known for his brilliance, exceptional organizational skills, and discipline.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Femi Adesina, the President said Diya displayed the above virtues in the important roles he held in office as a military officer.

Buhari paid tribute to General Diya’s bold and courageous career in the Nigeria military and dedicated service to the country as General Officer Commanding, 82 Division, Commandant, National War College (1991–1993), Chief of Defence Staff, and Military Governor of Ogun State from January 1984 to August 1985.

The President saluted the former Chief of General Staff for his love, belief, and loyalty to the country he cherished so much and fought gallantly on the frontlines to defend her unity.

Buhari, who expressed sadness over Diya’s demise, extended heartfelt condolences to the late retired general’s family, friends, and colleagues on behalf of the Federal Government, and the people of Nigeria.

He prayed that General Diya’s soul finds rest with his Creator, and may his contributions to the nation never be forgotten.