Diya Loses Wife to COVID-19, Family Quarantined

Matilda Omonaiye/

Former Chief of General Staff, Lt. Gen. Oladipo Diya (rtd), has lost his wife, Folashade Diya, to COVID-19.

President Muhammadu Buhari’s Special Adviser on Political Matters, Sen. Babafemi Ojudu, shared the news on his Facebook page today.

The 66-year-old second wife of the elder statesman reportedly died late yesterday.

NewsmakersNG learnt that Diya and the rest of his household have been advised to self-quarantine pending the determination of their COVID-19 status.

Meanwhile, Buhari has condoled with the family over the death in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina.

He said the President also prayed that the soul of the departed will find rest in God.

“He joined family members, friends and associates of Chief Folashade Diya, particularly members of the United African Methodist (Evangelical) Church, in mourning the devout Christian, who dedicated her time on earth to serving God, and working for the good of others,” he said.

Buhari said the wife of the former military chief lived to encourage and inspire many on faith in God, demonstrating love, kindness and generosity through a focus on helping the underprivileged, and counselling many.