DHQ debunks appointing acting COAS
Army
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Defence Headquarters has proved to be false reports making waves that it has appointed an acting Chief of Army Staff, stating that such appointments do not exist within the Armed Forces.
This clarification followed reports circulating about the alleged death of the COAS, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja on Sunday.
The Nigerian Army authorities clarified that Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja is on leave for medical check-ups abroad.
The DHQ further stated that prior to the COAS leave, appropriate measures were implemented for Major General Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim, the Army Chief of Policy and Plans to serve as acting head.
The Army, however, reiterated that there is no leadership vacuum, contrary to some speculation.
A statement on Monday by Brig-Gen. Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defence Information, clarified that the Chief of Policy and Plans is merely “providing routine briefs to the COAS in line with standard military procedures” and is not acting as the COAS.
It reads, “The Defence Headquarters wishes to clarify that it has not announced the appointment of any senior officer as the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), contrary to speculation by certain media outlets. For the record, no such appointment exists within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (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 Armed Forces of Nigeria is professionally managed and all the 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 standard military procedures.”
The DHQ enjoined individuals spreading unfounded rumours to desist from such acts, noting that COAS is hale and hearty and will soon resume normal duties at the end of his leave.
“Media organisations are advised to verify information with the appropriate authorities before releasing fake news to the public. The CDS had only spoken with the COAS a few minutes ago.
“Additionally, those advocating for a military takeover, as seen in a viral video, should be aware that such actions are treasonable under the Constitution.
“The AFN is steadfastly committed to the preservation and advancement of our democracy and is loyal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
The military remains focused on achieving its statutory responsibilities of protecting the nation’s integrity.
“To this end, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and relevant security agencies have been mandated to take necessary action against any individual or group advocating for unconstitutional changes in the country,” the statement added.
