Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun has said the role of Chief of General Staff, Lt. Gen. Oladipo Diya in Ogun history would not be forgotten and his contributions to the development of the security architecture of Nigeria would remain indelible.
In a statement released by the State Chief Press Secretary, Kunle Somorin on Sunday, the Gov. commiserated with the government and people of Nigeria, as well as military, friends and associates of soldier-statesman for his passing away.
Diya, the former military governor of Ogun State died at the age of 79. His death was announced on Sunday in a statement by his son, Oyesinmilola Diya.
It read, “On behalf of the entire Diya family home and abroad; we announce the passing on to Glory of our dear husband, father, grandfather and brother, Lt- Gen. Donaldson Oladipo Oyeyinka Diya (Rtd).
“Our dear Daddy passed onto glory in the early hours of March 26, 2023. Please keep us in your prayers as we mourn his demise in this period. Further announcements will be made public in due course,” he said.
Abiodun described the departed Army General as a seasoned administrator, gentleman, while recalled that the deceased who apart from being former de facto Number Two Citizen in the country was also a military governor in Ogun State.
“He was couragrous and daring, quick-witted and patriotic. Gen. Diya played frontline roles in the evolution and development of the state and his activities in the military, in part led to the eventual return, enthronement of democracy in the country In 1999”, the Governor said.
Ogun governor called on the family members, friends and associates of the departed leader who hailed from Odogbolu in Ogun East Senatorial District of the State to take solace in the fact that late soldier-statesman played the parts assigned to him by providence diligently, conscientiously and patriotically meritoriously.
While praying Almighty God to grant the late Diya’s soul eternal rest, Governor Abiodun also enjoined Nigerians to emulate the good virtues that he left behind.
Gen. Diya served as Chief of General Staff (de facto Vice President of Nigeria) under military from 1994 until his arrest for treason in 1997.
He previously served as Chief of Defence Staff and was Military Governor of Ogun State from January 1984 to August 1985 under the Buhari/Idiagbom military junta.