Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has mourned the death of Flight Lieutenant I.S. Bako, a Taraba indigene and co-pilot who died alongside other military personnel in an aircraft crash in Ondo State.
Bako was among the victims of the ill-fated military aircraft accident which occurred recently in Ondo state, South-West Nigeria.
In a condolence message, made available to journalists on Wednesday in Jalingo, the governor described the incident as a national tragedy, saying the country had lost some of its finest military officers in the crash.
The governor commiserated with the Nigerian military over the loss and extended his condolences to the deceased’s family, colleagues and the people of Taraba State.
“Taraba has lost a gallant son who served the nation with dedication, professionalism and patriotism,” Kefas said
In the message signed on his behalf by his Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communications, Emmanuel Bello, the governor said Bako died in active service and deserved to be remembered and honoured for his contributions to the country.
Kefas said the death was particularly painful to him because he and the deceased belonged to the same professional constituency, the military.
Beyond their professional connection, the governor described Bako as a promising young officer and fellow citizen whose life was cut short by the tragic incident.
He said the late officer would be remembered for his professionalism, good character and friendliness, qualities which, he noted, endeared him to his family, friends and colleagues in the military.
The governor also described Bako as a courageous and disciplined military officer who willingly undertook difficult assignments in the course of his service to the nation.
Kefas said the deceased’s contributions to national security would not be forgotten, adding that his dedication and work ethic would remain a reference point for younger generations in the military.
He prayed for the repose of Bako’s soul and asked God to grant his immediate family, colleagues and the people of Taraba State the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.