The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has denied reports of the appointment of any senior officer as the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), asserting that such an appointment does not exist within the Armed Forces.
This clarification follows speculation circulating on various online platforms regarding the alleged demise of the current COAS, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
In a statement released on Monday, the Nigerian Army confirmed that Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja is currently on leave and undergoing medical check-ups abroad. Before his leave, protocols were established for Major General Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), to provide routine briefs to the COAS, ensuring there was no leadership vacuum, contrary to some reports.
The Director of Defence Information, Brig-Gen. Tukur Gusau emphasized that Major General Ibrahim is not acting as the COAS, stating, “No such appointment exists within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).”
He assured the public that Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja is in good health and will resume his duties upon completion of his leave.
The DHQ urged individuals spreading unfounded rumors to cease immediately and reminded media organizations to verify information with appropriate authorities before dissemination.
The statement also addressed recent calls for a military takeover, labeling such actions as treasonable under the Constitution.
Assuring its commitment to democracy, the DHQ stated, “The military remains focused on achieving its statutory responsibilities of protecting the nation’s integrity,” and reiterated loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Armed Forces and relevant security agencies have been instructed to take necessary actions against any individuals or groups advocating for unconstitutional changes in the country.
