Badeh: Air Chief wants killers brought to book

Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, on Wednesday vowed that the killers of the late former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Alex Badeh, would be fished out.

Abubakar, in a remark at the burial of the late CDS at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja, noted that Badeh had served the nation well in several capacities.

He said that he was deeply touched and saddened by the manner in which Badeh, an accomplished military officer, who had attained the height of his chosen career, was killed.

He described the ex-CDS as a leader, commander and instructor-pilot.

The air chief said that Badeh handled over 6,000 flying hours during his flying career, adding that he would be missed.

“The loss of this patriotic and professional gentleman must spur the rest of us, not only in the Armed Forces, but indeed in Nigeria to rededicate ourselves in the service of our nation and our people.

“To deal decisively with crime and criminality, we must continue to work and redouble our efforts in supporting the Police and other security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are brought to book.’’

Abubakar said Badeh was a “jovial, principled and compassionate’’ general whose leadership and good nature positively influenced his peers as well as subordinates.

“Badeh’s achievement during his service to the nation spanning from his time as a young pilot to his appointment as Chief of Air Staff and CDS continue to generate admiration among his colleagues.

“He will be greatly missed for his invaluable service to the Nigerian Armed Forces and indeed Nigeria

“Our mentor sir, as you go to your final resting place today, may the Lord be with you forever and be assured that the Nigerian Air Force, and indeed, the nation will remain ever grateful to you for your service and sacrifice,’’ Abubakar said.

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Gabriel Olonisakin, said that the death of Badeh was a distress not only for his family, but the armed forces and the nation.

He described the late CDS as a leader, professional pilot and military officer.

Earlier, at a church service, Group Capt. D.B. Gani, the Chaplain, in his sermon entitled “The Lost Axe Head,’’ said “life is a borrowed item from heaven.’’

“I see everything about human life as a borrowed one; your office is borrowed and so when time comes He (God) takes it away.”

Gani said that late Badeh was passionate about God, describing him as a simple man “who flows freely with everyone’’.

Quoting from the Bible, he said “whether you are in the military, civilian or politician, you are living a borrowed life.’’