Army units to hoist flags at half-mast for three days to mourn Chris Alli

Taoreed Lagbaja, the chief of army staff, has directed all units and formations in the Nigerian Army (NA) to  “hoist their flags at half-mast” for three days in honour of  the late Chris Alli, one of his predecessors.

Mohammed Chris Alli was the chief of army staff during the regime of the late head of state Sani Abacha.

 Alli died on Sunday morning at a military hospital in Lagos after a brief illness. He was 78.

Starting from Monday, Lagbaja said the concerned units are to retain the honour till Wednesday.

In a statement on Monday by Onyema Nwachukwu, the army chief also directed all personnel to wear a black hand band “in remembrance of the late former COAS”.

“Maj. Gen Chris Alli dedicated his life to serving the nation through the Nigerian Army with indefatigable commitment and professionalism in the defence of our nation,” Nwachukwu quoted Lagbaja as saying. 

“In this time of grief, the Nigerian Army stands in solidarity with the family, friends and loved ones of the late Maj Gen Chris Alli.

“The Nigerian Army charges all personnel to adhere strictly to these instructions, as a mark of honour and respect for our fallen hero. 

“This period of mourning is an opportunity for all to reflect upon his accomplishments and the sacrifices made by our gallant soldiers in defence of our dear nation.”