Defence Headquarters dismisses rumors on Lagbaja’s health, affirms COAS is on annual leave

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, is in good health, dismissing rumors of his death and appointment of an acting COAS.

In a statement issued by the Acting Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, the DHQ clarified that Lt. Gen. Lagbaja is currently on a well-deserved annual leave.

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, confirmed that he spoke with Lagbaja “just minutes ago,” affirming that there is no leadership vacuum within the Nigerian Army. The Chief of Policy and Plans, Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Ibrahim, has been overseeing routine matters in line with military protocols.

READ ALSO: Defence headquarters names Bugudu as acting Chief of Army Staff as Lagbaja begins leave

Brig.-Gen. Gusau urged the public to disregard unfounded rumors, particularly those spread by online platforms, and warned that calls for unconstitutional changes in government are treasonable offenses.

He emphasized that the Armed Forces remain fully committed to defending Nigeria’s democracy and supporting the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

The Nigerian Army also refuted reports of Lagbaja’s death, with Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, stating that such claims are mischievous attempts to incite panic.

Nwachukwu reassured Nigerians that the Army has well-established procedures to ensure continuity of leadership during the COAS’s absence.

The DHQ concluded by thanking Nigerians for their concern and prayers for Lt. Gen. Lagbaja and reiterated that the military is prepared to safeguard the nation’s integrity against any threats.