The Ilobu community in Irepodun Local Government Area of Osun State has urged the Federal Government to immortalise the late Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, former Chief of Army Staff, describing him as a distinguished son whose contributions to the Nigerian Army and the nation remain unparalleled.

The appeal was made through the President of the Ilobu-Asake Development Union (IADU), Pastor Olufemi Salako, during a press briefing ahead of this year’s Ilobu Day celebration. The 2024 edition of the festival was suspended in honour of the late general.

Salako lamented the absence of any memorial in Ilobu to celebrate Lagbaja’s achievements. “If you come into our town today, there is nothing to show that we have produced a son like Lagbaja. We need to show the world that he has done extraordinarily well for this state and the country,” he said.

He disclosed that discussions are ongoing with the Federal Government and the Nigerian Army to establish a project or monument in Lagbaja’s honour. “Before his death, the Army built a modern hospital in our community, but it was not named after him. Naming the facility or another major project after him would serve as a lasting tribute and inspire future generations,” Salako added.

The community also called for support in the wake of a past communal clash involving Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin communities, which caused over N2 billion in damages and displaced numerous families. Salako appealed to Governor Ademola Adeleke to assist affected residents. “While the era of commotions is over, the scars remain. Businesses were devastated, and many families are still struggling to recover,” he said.

The Ilobu community further used the occasion to invite investors to return to the town and support its recovery and development.