Defence Headquarters Refutes Claims of Acting Chief of Army Staff Appointment

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has officially announced that no acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS) has been appointed within the Nigerian Armed Forces. The clarification came after rumors surfaced, suggesting a change in leadership. The DHQ confirmed that Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim remains the Chief of Policy and Plans and has not assumed the role of acting COAS.

In a statement issued on Monday by the Director of Defence Information, Tukur Gusau, the DHQ reaffirmed that Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja continues to serve as the COAS. The statement noted that Major General Ibrahim’s role is to provide routine briefings to the COAS, which is standard practice. The DHQ further clarified that Lt. Gen Lagbaja is currently on leave and will resume his duties immediately after.

The DHQ addressed the rumors, stating: “The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) wishes to clarify that it has not announced the appointment of any senior officer as the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), contrary to speculation by certain media outlets. For the record, no such appointment exists within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).”

The statement highlighted that Lt. Gen Lagbaja is on his annual 2024 leave and that the Armed Forces are professionally managed with all Service Chiefs fulfilling their constitutional responsibilities. It emphasized that the AFN operates efficiently and that the current briefings provided by Major General Ibrahim are in accordance with the standard operating procedures.

Furthermore, the DHQ warned against the spread of misinformation and urged media organizations to verify their sources before publishing news. The statement mentioned that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) had recently spoken with Lt. Gen Lagbaja, confirming his well-being and ongoing commitment to his duties.

No Coup, Military Affirms Allegiance to President Tinubu

The DHQ also addressed recent calls for a military takeover, which circulated in a viral video. It dismissed these calls, emphasizing the military’s loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and its commitment to the democratic process.

Tukur Gusau reiterated that any advocacy for a military coup constitutes treason under the Nigerian Constitution. He stressed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) are dedicated to maintaining the country’s democratic integrity and that they remain loyal to President Tinubu’s administration. The statement credited the relative peace and stability in the nation to the President’s support and the commitment of the AFN leadership.

The DHQ concluded by assuring Nigerians of its commitment to security and stated that relevant agencies have been tasked with addressing any attempts to disrupt the country’s democratic order. It also expressed gratitude for the public’s support and confidence in the military’s efforts to protect Nigeria’s stability.