The All Progressives Congress (APC) has described the death of former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Victor Samuel Leonard Malu as painful.
Malu died on Monday in Cairo, Egypt at the age 70 .
A statement by APC Spokesman,Bolaji Abdullahi said the Party condoles with the immediate family, the Nigerian Army and the government and people of Benue state over the painful loss.
“We pray the Almighty God grant the late Malu eternal rest and the family the strength to bear the loss
APC said as a recipient of the Force Service Star (FSS) Award, Meritorious Service Star (MSS) Award, Distinguished Service Star (DSS) Award, among others, Nigeria has indeed lost one of its finest military officers who distinguished himself and made the country proud in several local and international assignments he undertook during his illustrious military career.
The APC fondly recalled the distinguished service of the late Malu as Force Commander of the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) peace-keeping force in Liberia from 1996 to 1998. His impressive performance earned him commendations from both Liberians and international observers over improvements that followed his taking command.
In the course of the late Malu’s eventful tenure as the country’s Chief of Army Staff from 1999 to 2001, he doggedly canvassed and undertook reforms aimed at establishing a truly national army with a deep sense of purpose.
Also, Former Abia State Governor, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu has commiserated with the Nigerian army over the passing of former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.Gen Victor Malu.
Describing the deceased as a disciplined, energetic and patriotic military officer, Kalu acknowledged the contributions of the late general to peace-keeping beyond the shores of Nigeria.
While expressing sadness over the demise of the army general, the former governor urged the deceased’s family to take solace in the fact that their patriarch lived a purposeful life.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser,Kunle Oyewumi, Kalu said, ” I was pained when I got the news of the demise of Lt.Gen. Victor Malu.
“The late general being a thoroughbred professional in his field of endeavour, played pivotal and gallant roles in peace-keeping activities.
“He will be remembered for his remarkable service to the nation.
“Our prayers and thoughts are with the entire Malu family at this sorrowful time”
Kalu while conveying his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Benue State, prayed God to grant the deceased eternal rest.
