The Defence Headquarters has dismissed claims that a senior officer has been appointed as Acting Chief of Army Staff following rumors surrounding the health and status of Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, who has been on leave since September 2024.
Speculations about Lagbaja’s condition intensified over the weekend, with reports suggesting his death.
According to The PUNCH, the Army Headquarters swiftly refuted these claims. On Monday, reports emerged alleging the appointment of an acting COAS by the DHQ, which were also categorically denied.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, he clarified, “The Defence Headquarters wishes to state that it has not appointed any senior officer as Acting Chief of Army Staff. There is no provision for such an appointment within the Armed Forces of Nigeria”
Gusau explained that despite Lagbaja’s absence, there has been no leadership vacuum. “Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, has been providing routine briefs to the Chief of Army Staff as part of the Standard Operating Procedures, ” he said, reassuring that the military is professionally managed, and all service chiefs, including Lagbaja, are performing their constitutional duties.
Gusau also confirmed that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, had spoken directly with Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, who is reportedly in good health.
“The COAS is hale and hearty and will resume his duties after his well-deserved leave,” he added.
The statement urged media outlets to verify information before reporting, to avoid spreading misinformation. Gusau warned, “The DHQ urges those behind these unfounded rumours to desist immediately.”
In response to a viral video where some individuals called for the military to take over the government of President Bola Tinubu, Gusau firmly rejected any such notion.
“Those advocating for a military takeover must be aware that such actions constitute treason under the Constitution,” he stated.
He reaffirmed the military’s loyalty to President Tinubu’s administration, adding that the Armed Forces remain committed to upholding democracy and safeguarding national security.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria will not support any unconstitutional action and remain dedicated to protecting the country’s integrity and peace,” Gusau concluded.
