Lagbaja: Defence Headquarters opens up on appointing acting COAS

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has refuted reports claiming it appointed an acting Chief of Army Staff amid speculations surrounding the health of the current Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja.

Lt. General Lagbaja, who has been on leave and outside the country since September, sparked concerns when rumors of his death surfaced. On Sunday, viral reports claimed that he had passed away, which were quickly dismissed by the Army Headquarters.

Following the death rumors, another report suggested that the DHQ had appointed an acting Chief of Army Staff. However, in a statement issued on Monday, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, clarified that there is no provision for such an appointment in the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

Brigadier General Gusau assured the public that there is no leadership vacuum, explaining that Major General Abdulsalam Ibrahim, Chief of Policy and Plans, has been handling routine briefings for the COAS in line with Standard Operating Procedures.

He said, “Here’s a refined version of your statement:

The Defence Headquarters wishes to clarify that it has not announced the appointment of any senior officer as Acting Chief of Army Staff, contrary to speculation by certain media outlets. For the record, no such appointment exists within the AFN.

“The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, is currently on a well-deserved rest as part of his 2024 annual leave. The AFN is professionally managed, and all Service Chiefs are performing their duties as stipulated in the Constitution of the FGN. Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, is providing routine briefs to the COAS in accordance with SOP.”

Gusau warned those behind the several rumours against the Army to desist from such acts.

He said, “The DHQ urges individuals spreading unfounded rumours to desist from doing so immediately. “

Gusau also mentioned that the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, had spoken with Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, confirming that the COAS is in good health.

He added that Lagbaja would soon resume his duties after completing his leave.

Gusau said, “The COAS is hale and hearty and will soon resume his normal duties at the end of his leave.

“Media organizations are advised to verify information with the appropriate authorities before spreading fake news to the public. The CDS had spoken with the COAS just a few minutes ago.”

Gusau also criticised those calling for the military to take over the government of President Bola Tinubu.

This was in response to a viral video featuring a group of individuals lamenting the hardships under Tinubu’s administration and urging the military to intervene.

However, Gusau emphasized that the military remains loyal to Tinubu’s government and will not disrupt his administration.

He said, “Additionally, those advocating for a military takeover, as seen in the viral video, should be aware that such actions are considered treason under the Constitution.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria is steadfastly committed to the preservation and advancement of our democracy and remain loyal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The military is focused on fulfilling its statutory responsibilities, including safeguarding the nation’s integrity.

“The relative peace being enjoyed today is a direct result of the President’s support for the military and the dedication of the AFN leadership.

“To this end, the AFN and relevant security agencies have been mandated to take necessary action against any individual or group advocating for unconstitutional changes in the country.”