October 21, 2024
The Defence Headquarters, DHQ has cleared the air regarding the health status and position of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
DHQ, announced that no appointment of acting Chief of Army Staff, COAS was made and that such position does not exist within the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
In a statement by the Acting Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, on Monday in Abuja, no such appointment existed within the Armed Forces of Nigeria, saying that the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, had only spoken with the Chief of Army Staff, COAS, a few minutes ago.
Gusua, maintained that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, is currently on a well-deserved rest as part of his 2024 annual leave.
He said the armed forces were professionally managed, adding that all the Service Chiefs were performing their duties as stipulated in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Gusau clarified that Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, was providing routine briefs to the COAS in accordance with standard military procedures.
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“The DHQ, therefore, urges those spreading unfounded rumours on the health and position of the COAS, to desist from doing so immediately.
“The COAS is hale and hearty and will soon resume normal duties at the end of his leave.
The defense spokesman, advised media organisations to always verify information with the appropriate authorities before publication.
He also warned those advocating for a military takeover be aware that such actions were treasonable and punishable under the Nigeria Constitution.
Gusua, emphasized that, the armed forces is steadfastly committed to the preservation and advancement of our democracy and are loyal to President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
“The military remains focused on achieving its statutory responsibilities of protecting 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 armed forces leadership.
“To this end, the armed forces and other relevant security agencies have been mandated to take necessary action against any individual or group advocating for unconstitutional change of government in the country.
