It was a black Friday on May 21 as the aircraft conveying Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Ibrahim Attahiru, and 10 others crashed in Kaduna.
According to Sahara Reporters, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) is the highest-ranking military officer of the Nigerian Army. The position is often occupied by the most senior officer and is appointed by the President of Nigeria.
Condolence messages have poured in since the ill-fated event. In his message, the Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Mohammed Yerima, said, “The Nigerian Army regrets to announce the passing away of its Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Ibrahim Attahiru. The sad event occurred following an air crash in Kaduna which also claimed the lives of 10 other officers including the crew.’’
Meanwhile, Yotam Kreiman, Deputy Chief of Mission and Consul of Israel in Nigeria tweeted; “The Embassy of @IsraelinNigeria is shocked and sad by the untimely passing of the hero. #COAS #Attahiru was a friend of #Israel, studied at IDC Herzliya, and believed in making #Nigeria a safer country. We believe his vision for security, stability and peace will live on.”
About Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru
Attahiru was born on August 10, 1966 in Kaduna. He had a Masters Degree in Strategic Management and Policy Studies from the Nigerian Defense Academy. Also, he bagged a Masters of Science in Human Resources Management and Development from Salford University in the UK. Furthermore, he had a Graduate Diploma in International Studies from the University of Nairobi, Kenya.
In 2017, he served as the Theatre Commander, Operation Lafiya Dole. During his tenure, the Theatre achieved many successes against the insurgents.
According to Sahara Reporters, some of the operations Attahiru led “resulted in the killing of two key Boko Haram commanders, Abdu Kawuri and Abubakar Benishek”, at Alafa in the Bama Local Government Area of Borno State.
He was removed from his position nine months later. His redeployment ‘’followed the deadliest attacks by Boko Haram insurgents on Biu town in Borno where at least 18 people were killed and 52 others seriously injured.’’
Lieutenant General Attahiru was redeployed to Nigerian Army Headquarters as Deputy Chief of Policy and Plans. Besides, he was former General Officer Commanding, 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Enugu.
Top government officials noticeably missing at Attahiru’s burial
The fallen soldiers were buried on May 22 in Abuja amidst tears from family members and friends. The absence of President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and Senate President Ahmed Lawan was quite noticeable. It made some people worry about the manner in which the country’s leaders treat her fallen heroes.
Nigerian journalist and the Executive Director of The Authority, Chuks Akunna said, ‘’As if the death of Army Chief Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru and other officers isn’t tragic enough, C-in-C Buhari refused to attend their burial. Lesson 101: Die for Nigeria, die in vain.’’
Human rights activist Aisha Yesufu tweeted; ‘’On the 7th of November 2016, the bodies of soldiers were brought in from Borno to be buried in Abuja. The whole nation was grieving these heroes killed alongside their leader Lt Col Abu Ali. Muhammadu Buhari on that day callously chose to go to Edo State and campaign for votes.’’
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Furthermore, Comrade Deji Adeyanju said, ‘’Your COAS died in the line of duty but you couldn’t attend his burial. It’s not like the man went on a voyage or frolic of his own. These Generals and officers died serving the country. Na wa ooo. I’m just speechless for Buhari and his people.’’
The fallen heroes were buried with 21 gunshot salute. In honour of the late COAS and other military officers, the presidency directed that the national flag be flown at half-mast in all public buildings and official residences across the country from May 24 to 26.
May their souls rest in peace.
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