Joshua Dogonyaro: Buhari Reacts to Death of General Who Read the Coup Speech that Ousted Him in 1985
- President Buhari has showered praises on Joshua Dogonyaro, a former Chief of Defence Staff, who died on Thursday, May 13
- The Nigerian leader sent his condolences to the government and people of Plateau state where the late general hailed from
- Dogonyaro, a top officer during Nigeria's military era, read the coup speech that ousted Buhari in 1985
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President Muhammadu Buhari has reacted to the death of Lieutenant General Joshua Dogonyaro, a former Chief of Defence Staff.
The Nigerian leader described Dogonyaro as a thoroughbred soldier who had professionally distinguished himself in the course of his military career, Daily Trust reported.
Source: Getty Images
Legit.ng gathers that President Buhari's reaction was contained in a statement released by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, on Thursday, May 13.
He said Dogonyaro's death was 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 Cable also reported.
The statement reads in part:
“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.
“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 condolences to the government and people of Plateau state on the passing of “this legendary general”.
Dogonrayo read 1985 coup speech
Dogonrayo was one of the top guys during Nigeria's military era.
When President Buhari, then military head of state, was ousted, he was tasked with the responsibility of reading the coup speech that brought in Ibrahim Babangida on August 27, 1985.
Atiku reacts
Meanwhile, Nigeria's former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, has also mourned the passing of Dogonyaro.
In a thread of Twitter posts, Atiku said he was saddened by the loss of Lt Gen. Dogonyaro (rtd) whom he described as a soldier and administrator.
Atiku further hailed the deceased, say he was "a thoroughbred soldier and administrator, who held several command position; the peak of which was as Chief of Defence Staff."
He added:
"My deepest condolences to his family and the government, and the people of Plateau state. May his soul rest in peace.
"Once again, on behalf of my family, I wish all Muslims a happy #EidAlFitr celebration and pray that Almighty Allah accept our sacrifices in good deeds."
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Legit.ng earlier reported that General Dogonyaro passed on early on Thursday, May 13, at Jos University Teaching Hospital at the age of 80, according to family sources.
The remains of the deceased have been deposited at Airforce Hospital in Jos, Plateau.
Major Gabriel Adofiku (retd), a former officer of Dogonyaro, told journalists that the erstwhile military chief died on Thursday around 3.30am.
Source: Legit.ng
