By Ihechi Enyinnaya
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced that no senior officer has been appointed as the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), clarifying that such an appointment does not exist within the Armed Forces.
This statement follows recent reports on various online platforms regarding the alleged demise of Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the current COAS. The DHQ confirmed that Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja is on leave for medical check-ups abroad.
Before his leave, the necessary protocols were established for Major General Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, to handle routine briefs for the COAS. The DHQ emphasized that this does not equate to him serving as acting COAS, as there is no provision for such a role in the military.
In a statement issued by Brig-Gen. Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, the DHQ reaffirmed that the Armed Forces are being effectively managed, with all service chiefs fulfilling their constitutional duties. It urged the public to refrain from spreading baseless rumors, stating that the COAS is in good health and will return to duty after his leave.
The DHQ also cautioned media outlets to verify information with official sources before publishing, noting that the Chief of Defence Staff had recently communicated with the COAS.
Furthermore, the DHQ addressed calls for a military takeover, highlighting that such actions are treasonous under the Constitution. It reiterated the military’s commitment to upholding democracy and its loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the military’s focus on its statutory responsibilities to protect the nation’s integrity, warning that action will be taken against anyone promoting unconstitutional changes.