Buhari mourns ex-Defence chief, Dogonyaro, who dies at 80

President Muhammadu Buhari has commiserated with the military over the death of a former Chief of Defence Staff and ECOMOG commander, retired Lt. Gen. Joshua Dogonyaro.
The President in a statement by his spokesman, Malam Garba Shehu,
described the demise of 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.”
Dogonyaro’s first son, Joseph, confirmed the death to reporters on Thursday morning.
He said, “Daddy has been sick for some time until yesterday when he had a stroke and we rushed him to the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) for medical attention.
“Unfortunately, early this morning of Thursday, around 3am precisely, he breathed his last and died.”
The President, in his statement, said, “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 further described Dogonyaro as a thoroughbred soldier who had professionally distinguished himself in the course of his military career.
”Laying down one’s life for the country is one of the greatest sacrifices any citizen can make to his country.
“Gen. Dogonyaro’s incalculable contributions will be remembered for years to come.”
Buhari also extended 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.
Gen. Dogonyaro, a soldier and an administrator, was born on September 12, 1940, in Vom, Plateau State, though a native of Taroh in Langtang North Local Government Area.
Dogonyaro had his early education at Boys’ Secondary School, Gindiri, and thereafter was enlisted in the Nigerian Army, 1964.
He was commissioned Second-Lieutenant in the Nigerian Army Armoured Corps, 1967; Officer Commanding, 1 Recce Squadron, NA, 1967-69; Quartermaster General, I Infantry Division (Main), N, 1969-70.