Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja |
There were also reports claiming that the army leadership had appointed a senior officer to temporarily fill Lagbaja’s position. However, the Director of Defence Information, Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, debunked these claims, emphasizing that the army continues to follow established protocols. Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, is providing routine briefs to Lagbaja as part of standard military procedure during his leave.
In the same statement, Gusau warned those calling for a military takeover, referencing a viral video advocating for such action. He stressed that such actions are treasonous under Nigeria’s Constitution. The DHQ reiterated its commitment to preserving Nigeria’s democracy and loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
“The Defence Headquarters wishes to clarify that no acting COAS has been appointed. Lt. Gen. Lagbaja is currently observing his 2024 annual leave. The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) is professionally managed, and all Service Chiefs are performing their duties as stipulated by the Constitution,” the statement read.
The DHQ also expressed appreciation for the public’s support of the military, attributing the country's current stability to the backing of President Tinubu and the dedication of the Armed Forces. It urged the media to verify their reports before publishing unconfirmed news, confirming that the CDS (Chief of Defence Staff) had recently spoken with the COAS.
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