Ilobu town, headquarters of Irepodun Local Government Area of Osun State has rallied prayers for the ailing substantive Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja.

The community through Ilobu-Asake Development Union (IDU) during a press conference to herald 2024 Ilobu Day celebration, also warned rumour mongers to desist from peddling fake news on Lagbaja, who hails from the community.

National President of the union, Pastor Olufemi Salako, said before his health challenge the community had been praying for his success in navigating the difficult assignment handed over to him.

“We believed in the efficacy of prayer that is why we call on all sons and daughters of Ilobu to pray and fast fervently for the recovery of Lagbaja, our son. We are not saying traditional worshippers are not on board in this but everybody in the community must pray for his healing.

“We believe the God that kept him alive, even when some wished him dead will perfect His work on him and bring him back safely to continue his service to the nation. We, therefore, use this medium to caution fake news carriers to desist from their ungodly assignment,” he said.

Speaking about 2024 Ilobu Day which will hold on November 9, he disclosed that N200million will be raised, saying “Illustrious sons of Ilobu, like Rt Hon. Lasun Yusuf, Former Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives; Lt General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff; among others will be leading the fundraising for developmental projects.

“We appeal to the Osun State government to rescue the completely dilapidated Konda Comprehensive Health Centre which is the only secondary health facility serving thousands of residents of Ilobu, Erin, Alapupu and other adjourning communities.” (The Nation)