The Senator representing Kogi Central in the national Assembly Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has expressed deep grieve over the passing of Alhaji Siyaka Yakubu, a veteran chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kogi State, whose life and legacy have left a profound impact on the political landscape of Kogi Central.

Alhaji Yakubu, a foundational member of the PDP in Okehi Local Government Area, dedicated his life to the party’s growth and ideals, serving with loyalty and dedication from the party’s inception in 1999 until his passing at the age of 97.
His decades of commitment and passion have been described as an invaluable asset to the PDP both in Kogi Central and across the state.

In her tribute, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan lauded Alhaji Yakubu’s enduring dedication to the PDP’s vision, noting that his passing represents a significant loss for the party.
“Alhaji Yakubu’s commitment to the PDP was unwavering, and his life serves as an inspiring example of dedication to public service,” she said.

The senator extended her heartfelt condolences to Alhaji Yakubu’s family and the entire PDP community in Kogi, urging them to find solace in his lasting legacy and contributions to the party.
“While we mourn this great loss, we also celebrate a life lived with purpose and integrity. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us in our efforts to build a better future for Kogi and for Nigeria.”

Alhaji Yakubu’s passing has left a deep void within the PDP ranks, as leaders and members remember him for his wisdom, resilience, and lifetime of service.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the passing of Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, who died on Tuesday night in Lagos at age 56 after a brief illness.

Lt. General Lagbaja, born on February 28, 1968, had a distinguished military career spanning over three decades. Appointed Chief of Army Staff by President Tinubu on June 19, 2023, he was respected for his leadership and commitment to national security.
His career began in 1987 when he entered the Nigerian Defence Academy. By 1992, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps as a member of the 39th Regular Course.

Throughout his service, Lt. General Lagbaja held several key positions, including roles as platoon commander in both the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.
He led numerous operations critical to Nigeria’s internal security, such as Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in the Southeast, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States, all of which reinforced his reputation as a dedicated military leader.

In addition to his field achievements, Lt. General Lagbaja held a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College, an accomplishment that underscored his commitment to advancing his strategic and leadership skills.

He leaves behind his wife, Mariya, and their two children.
President Tinubu expressed his condolences to the family, acknowledging Lt. General Lagbaja’s significant contributions to the Armed Forces and Nigeria.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, said,
“The President extends his heartfelt condolences to the family and prays for the peaceful repose of Lt. General Lagbaja’s soul, honoring his legacy of service to Nigeria.”

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has expressed his condolences to three prominent Nigerians grieving the loss of their children.

In a message posted on his X handle, Obi extended his sympathies to former Kaduna State Governor Ahmed Makarfi, who lost his son Faisal, NNPC Limited CEO Mele Kolo Kyari, who mourns his daughter Fatima, and former Plateau State Deputy Governor Dame Pauline Tallen, who lost her only son, Richard Adamu Tallen.

Obi emphasized the profound pain of losing children with bright futures, noting the significant void their deaths create in their families.
He offered prayers for forgiveness and peace for the deceased, urging for divine protection and blessings upon the Makarfi, Kyari, and Tallen families.

Obi’s condolence messages read, “On behalf of my family, I condole with my dear elder brother and Former Governor of Kaduna State, Ahmed Makarfi, on the loss of his son, Faisal Makarfi. 

“I also condole with my dear younger brother, Mele Kolo Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer, NNPC Limited, on the death of his daughter, Fatima Kyari.

“My heartfelt condolences go to all of them, including my dear elder sister Dame Pauline Tallen, whom I visited last week on the death of her only son, Richard Adamu Tallen.

“One can only imagine the pain of losing children with very promising future at such  young age. 

“The vacuum created by their death will surely be felt in all the families, but we can only accept the painful incidents as the will of the Almighty, who alone has the power of life.

“May God Almighty, who called them home at this time, forgive their sins and grant them Aljanna Firdausi. May God continue to protect and bless the Makarfi, Kyari, and the Tallen families, always. -PO”