Former defence minister and chief of defence staff, General Domkat Yah Bali is dead. He was 80 years old.
Bali who later became traditional ruler of his native town died Friday, with President Muhammadu Buhari mourning his transition.
In a condolence message to the government and people of Plateau, Buhari described Bali as an illustrious son and highly decorated retired military officer.
The President, who spoke with the wife of the deceased, Esther on Friday, also commiserated with other family members, friends and professional associates of the former member of the Supreme Military Council and Armed Forces Ruling Council.
Bali, a member of the Langtang mafia in the Nigerian military in the 80s and 90s, rose through the ranks, with a distinguished military career, reaching the peak as Chief of Defence Staff.
President Buhari said he believes that the records of bravery and patriotism of Gen. Bali, the Ponzhi Tarok, will continue to inspire young military officers.
He also hoped that the foundation Bali laid in all the commands he headed will always be remembered.
The President has also constituted a delegation led by the Minister of Defence, Maj-Gen. Bashir Salihi Magashi (rtd) to visit the family, and condole with government and people of the state over the loss.
President Buhari prayed that the almighty God will receive the soul of the departed and comfort his family.
Bali as defence minister resigned the position in January 1990, when then military president Ibrahim Babangida moved him into another ministry.
It was an unprecedented act of courage in the military and remains so, three decades after.
