The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has refuted reports suggesting the appointment of an acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), following online rumors regarding the health and alleged death of Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, on Monday, the DHQ clarified that no such appointment exists within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
The statement further explained that Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja is on a routine medical check-up abroad as part of his annual leave.
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Contrary to speculations, the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim, is only providing routine briefings to the COAS in line with standard military procedures, not acting as the Chief of Army Staff.
“The Defence Headquarters wishes to clarify that it has not announced the appointment of any senior officer as the acting Chief of Army Staff… The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, is currently on a well-deserved rest as part of his 2024 annual leave,” the DHQ statement read.
The military urged the public to disregard the unfounded rumors and warned media outlets to verify their information with appropriate authorities before disseminating false reports.
Additionally, the DHQ addressed viral videos advocating for military intervention, stating that such actions are treasonous under the Nigerian Constitution.
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It reaffirmed the military’s loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s democracy.
“The military remains focused on its statutory responsibility of protecting the nation’s integrity… Any advocacy for unconstitutional changes will be met with necessary action by the Armed Forces of Nigeria and relevant security agencies,” the statement added.
The Nation