By Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
The Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has commiserated with the Nigerian Army and the family of the late Commanding Officer of 20 Battalion, Serti, Lt. Col. Emmanuel Gabriel Okoye, describing his death as a painful loss to the state and the nation. The governor said the news of the senior officer’s demise came to the government “as a great shock and sadness.”
Lt. Col. Okoye, who served as Commanding Officer of 20 Battalion in Serti, Taraba State, distinguished himself through dedication, courage, professionalism and an exceptional sense of duty in the service of Nigeria. The governor noted that during his tenure in Serti, the late officer demonstrated exemplary leadership and a firm commitment to the maintenance of peace, security and stability in Taraba and surrounding areas.
Dr. Agbu Kefas, through the SGS Chief Barr. Gebon T. Kataps, extended heartfelt condolences to Brigadier General Emeka Akaliro, Commander 6 Brigade/Operation Wildstroke in Jalingo, as well as to the immediate family of the deceased officer.
He stressed that although words may not adequately capture the pain of the irreparable loss, the people and government of Taraba take solace in the fact that Lt. Col. Okoye lived a life of honour, sacrifice and selfless service to humanity and his country.
Governor Kefas assured the bereaved family and the Nigerian Army of the State Government’s prayers and solidarity during the period of mourning.
He prayed that Almighty God would grant the Army and the family the strength, courage and fortitude to bear the loss, and that the departed officer would find eternal rest in perfect peace.
Chief Barr Gebon T. Kataps further conveyed the government’s deepest sympathies and reaffirmed its support to the family as they navigate the difficult moment. The condolence message reinforces the administration’s recognition of the sacrifices of security personnel deployed in Taraba State and its appreciation of their role in safeguarding lives and property.