President Muhammadu Buhari has mourned the passing of former Chief of General Staff (CGS), Lt. General Oladipo Diya, who served as Vice Chairman of the Provisional Ruling Council (PRC) between 1994 and 1997 under Abacha’s regime.

Diya, 79, passed away in the early hours of Sunday, as announced by his son, Prince 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, brother, Lt-General Donaldson Oladipo Oyeyinka Diya (rtd) GCON, LLB, BL, PSC, FSS, mni.

“Our dear Daddy passed onto glory in the early hours of 26th March 2023. Please keep us in your prayers as we mourn his demise in this period. Further announcements will be made public in due course.”

Mourning the deceased, Buhari in a statement by his spokesman, Femi Adesina said, “for his love, belief and loyalty to the country,” adding that “his contributions to the nation will never be forgotten.”

“Diya was known for his brilliance, exceptional organisational skills and discipline, and he displayed these virtues in the important roles he held in office as a military officer.”