Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello has condoled with the family of Etsu of Bassa-Nge Kingdom Brigadier General Abu-Ali (Rtd) over the death of his son Lt. Col. Muhammed Abu Ali popularly called the Lord of War on account of his commitment and accomplishments in the war against terror.

The Governor’s condolence message came on the heels of that of the Command Centre and other Nigerians who paid glowing tribute to the late gallant soldier killed by Boko Haram terrorists alongside other soldiers in an ambush.

This is contained in a condolence message issued by the Chief Press Secetary to the Governor, Petra Akinti Onyegbule on Sunday in Lokoja. Alhaji Bello described his death as unfortunate and  “a monumental loss to Kogi State and Nigeria”

Governor Bello said the late colonel “was a gallant officer who served the nation with his all and paid the supreme price by laying down his life for the peace of the country. He maintained that the late Col. will be remembered for his sacrifice and commitment to the cause of the Nigerian Army to rid the country of insurgency which has been a source of concern to everyone.

“Kogi State and indeed Nigerians will never forget your gallantry as you led a ream of the Nigerian Army to recapture Baga from the control of terrorists and you death while in active service, gallant soldier” Governor Bello said of Lt. Col. Muhammed Abu Ali.

Governor Bello extended his condolences to the Etsu of Bassa-Nge Kingdom over this devastating loss. Allah giveth and He taketh, from Him we came and to Him we return. May Allah give you the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss.

Also on Sunday, the Command Centre regretted the passing away of “a gallant, battle tested and trusted patriotic soldier of the Nigerian Army, Lt. Col. Muhammad Abu Ali.

“He served the nation with unwavering commitment and dedication, paying the ultimate price so that millions can sleep on their beds in peace.

“Until his death, Lt. Col. Muhammad Abu Ali nicknamed “Sarkin Yaji; Lord of war” was the commanding officer of the 272 task force battalion at Mallam Fatori in Northern Borno State.

“We are deeply pained at the loss of one so selfless and committed to routing the misguided terrorists from the North of the country

“Lt. Col. Muhammad Abu Ali, a recipient of the Chief of Army staff award for exceptional bravery and excellence led the army units that recovered Gamboru-Ngala, Baga and several communities from the terrorists, he lost his life after a failed attempt by the terrorists to capture Mallam Fatori with four other gallant soldiers”, the Centre said.