Buhari and Obasanjo Pay Tribute to General Diya, Dubbed “A No-Nonsense Officer”

The late Lt. General Donaldson Diya, who passed away early on Sunday, has received tributes from both President Muhammadu Buhari and former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Presidents Buhari and Obasanjo praised his admirable character and dedication to the country in separate statements.

In a statement on behalf of his principal, presidential adviser Femi Adesina said, “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 President commends the former Chief of General Staff for his love, faith, and dedication to the nation he so dearly loved and bravely defended on the front lines to preserve her unity. The President sends his sincere condolences to Diya’s family, friends, and coworkers on behalf of the Federal Government.

According to a statement from the former president’s special assistant on media, Kehinde Akinyemi, the death of the former military governor of Ogun State has further weakened the leadership of the country in the eyes of Obasanjo.

According to a report, Obasanjo referred to the deceased as “a dedicated officer and a real patriot.” He stood out as a seasoned soldier from the height of the Nigerian Civil War to the Army’s post-war reorganization.

“The extraordinary assiduity, loyalty, and resourcefulness with which he performed his duties and responsibilities culminated in his appointment as Commander 31, Airborne Brigade; Military Governor of Ogun State from January 1984 to August 1985; General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Nigeria Army in 1985; Commandant, National War College, 1991–1993; Chief of Defence Staff in 1993 and shortly thereafter, Chief of General Staff also in 1993; Vice Chairman of the Provisional Ruling Council.

He went on to say, “I recall he made a tremendous mark as a Military Governor of Ogun State through dedication to duty, loyalty to his fatherland, and an impeccable example of incorruptible leadership.”

He was a no-nonsense officer who was also brave and strict with discipline.