Former Chief of Staff under the late Head of State, General Sani Abacha, Oladipo Diya, who cheated death 24 years ago, died Sunday, March 26.
Prince Oyesinmilola Diya, son of the retired Lieutenant General, announced his death in a statement on Sunday.
In 1997, Diya and dissident soldiers in the military allegedly plotted to overthrow Abacha regime. The alleged coup was uncovered by forces loyal to Abacha, and Diya and his cohorts were jailed.
A military tribunal headed by General Victor Malu, the former commander of the West African regional peacekeeping force ECOMOG that tried Diya gave him death by firing squad.
Upon the untimely death of Abacha in 1998, General Abdusalami Abubakar later pardoned Diya.
Buhari mourns Diya
Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari has mourned the death of one-time Chief of General Staff under the Sani Abacha military regime, Lt Gen Oladipo Diya, who died at 78 .
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, President Buhari paid tribute to the former number two man’s love and loyalty to the country, which he served in several capacities, including on the front lines, to protect its unity.
“President Muhammadu Buhari mourns the passing on Sunday of Lt. General Oladipo Diya, who served as Chief of General Staff from 1993 to 1997 and Vice Chairman of the Provisional Ruling Council in 1994.
“The President pays 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 recalls that Diya was known for his brilliance, exceptional organizational skills and discipline, and he displayed these virtues in the important roles he held in office as a military officer,’’ the statement reads.
“The President salutes 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.
“On behalf of the Federal Government, the President extends heartfelt condolences to Diya’s family, friends and colleagues.
“President Buhari prays that General Diya’s soul finds rest with his Creator, and may his contributions to the nation never be forgotten,” it added.
