The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed speculations regarding the appointment of an acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), confirming that Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja remains in his role and is currently on a scheduled annual leave.
In a statement released on Monday, signed by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defence Information the DHQ, clarified that there is no new appointment within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) and emphasized that Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, is only providing routine briefs during the COAS’s absence.
Gusau said the clarification comes in response to media reports suggesting otherwise, which the DHQ categorically labeled as false.
The military leadership urged the media to verify information with the appropriate authorities before disseminating unverified claims, cautioning against the spread of misinformation.
In the same statement, the DHQ addressed a viral video circulating on social media, which called for a military coup. The DHQ strongly condemned such calls, labeling them as treasonous and unconstitutional.
According to the statement, the military reaffirmed its loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and is dedicated to preserving democracy in Nigeria.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria are professionally managed, and all service chiefs are carrying out their duties as stipulated in the Constitution,” the statement read.
It further added the progress being made in maintaining peace across the nation, attributing this to the support of President Tinubu and the AFN’s leadership.
The military assured Nigerians of its commitment to upholding the country’s integrity and warned that any individual or group advocating for unconstitutional changes would face consequences.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) expressed appreciation for the public’s support and confidence in the military, assuring Nigerians that stability will be maintained.
