President Muhammadu Buhari has described the death of the former Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Joshua Dogonyaro as “a great loss not only to the Nigerian military, but also to the country because of his patriotic sacrifices in defence of its unity and territorial integrity.”
“The death of Dogonyaro comes as a great shock to me because as a soldier, I know what it means to lose such an officer and a gentleman who gave his best in the service of the country,” the President says.
In a statement by Presidential Spokesperson, Garba Shehu, President Buhari describes the late Dogonyaro, a former Force Commander of ECOMOG and famously known for announcing the President’s overthrow as Head of State in August 27, 1987, “as a thoroughbred soldier who had professionally distinguished himself in the course of his military career.”
Buhari noted that “laying down one’s life for the country is one of the greatest sacrifices any citizen can make to his country. General Dogonyaro’s incalculable contributions will be remembered for years to come.”
President Buhari also extended the deepest condolences to the Government and people of Plateau State on the passing of ‘‘this legendary General.’
He prayed “Almighty God to bless the soul of the departed and grant his family the fortitude to bear the loss.”