The former Chief of General Staff in General Sani Abacha’s military regime, Lt-General Donaldson Oladipo Oyeyinka Diya (retd), has passed away. His death was confirmed by his son, Prince Oyesinmilola Diya, who announced that the former military administrator of Ogun State passed away in the early hours of March 26, 2023.
Born on April 3, 1944, Diya was a graduate of the Nigerian Defence Academy, where he fought during the Nigerian Civil War. He later attended the US Army School of Infantry, the Command and Staff College, Jaji (1980–1981), and the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru.
During his time in the military, Diya also studied law at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he obtained an LLB degree. He then proceeded to the Nigerian Law School, where he was called to the bar as a Solicitor and Advocate of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
Diya was appointed as the military Governor of Ogun State after the Buhari-Idiagbon coup of December 31st, 1983. He went on to hold other top military posts, such as GOC, 82 Division, and finally, the Chief of General Staff (military Vice President) to Gen Sani Abacha.
In a statement released by Prince Oyesinmilola Diya on behalf of the family, he said:
“On behalf of the entire Diya family home and abroad, we announce the passing of our dear Husband, Father, Grandfather, and brother, Lt-General Donaldson Oladipo Oyeyinka Diya (Rtd) GCON, LLB, BL, PSC, FSS, mni. Our dear Daddy passed onto glory in the early hours of March 26, 2023. Please keep us in your prayers as we mourn his demise in this period. Further announcements will be made public in due course.”
Lt-General Donaldson Oladipo Oyeyinka Diya (retd) was a respected military figure in Nigeria and will be remembered for his contributions to the country. His passing is a great loss to the nation, and our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.
