The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed reports claiming that an acting Chief of Army Staff has been appointed, News About Nigeria reports.
In a statement released on Monday and signed by Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defence Information, DHQ stressed that no such appointment exists within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) and also condemned calls for a military coup, labeling such actions as treasonable.
The DHQ clarified that the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, is currently on his 2024 annual leave and is expected to resume his duties soon. The statement was issued in response to speculation from certain media outlets regarding the supposed appointment of an acting COAS.
“The DHQ wishes to clarify that it has not announced the appointment of any senior officer as the acting Chief of Army Staff, contrary to speculation by certain media outlets,” the statement read.
It stated that the AFN is professionally managed, with all Service Chiefs fulfilling their constitutional responsibilities.
Recent rumours also suggested that Lt. Gen. Lagbaja had died, a claim that the DHQ quickly refuted as fake news.
The statement indicated that Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, is providing routine briefs to the COAS in line with standard military procedures.
The DHQ urged those spreading unfounded rumours to cease immediately, reassuring the public that the COAS is in good health and will return to duty after his leave.
Media organisations were advised to verify information with appropriate authorities before publishing.
The DHQ also said it was against calls for a military takeover, stating that such actions are unconstitutional and treasonable under the law.
Furthermore, the DHQ noted that the current peace in the country is a result of the President’s backing for the military and the dedication of AFN leadership.
They warned that necessary actions would be taken against any person or groups advocating for unconstitutional changes.
