The COAS Is Alive, No One Has Replaced Him – Army

The Defence Headquarters has come out to refute reports that it appointed a senior officer as the acting Chief of Army Staff.

The recent rumors about COAS, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja being dead have been denied by the army, and Nigerians have been reacting.

According to the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, there is no provision for an acting Chief of Army Staff in the Armed Forces of Nigeria right now, so citizens should ignore the lies spreading at the moment.

Tukur added that the Chief of Policy and Plans, Major General Abdulsalam Ibrahim, has been providing routine briefs to the Chief of Army Staff since he took a break.

His words, “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.

The DHQ urges individuals spreading unfounded rumours to desist from doing so immediately.

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.

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.”