Army Debunks Appointment of Acting Chief of Staff Amid COAS Health Rumours

The Defence Headquarters has refuted reports claiming the appointment of a senior officer as the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS). Speculation intensified after the current COAS, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, went on leave in September, fuelling rumours about his health and even his death, which were promptly dismissed by Army Headquarters.

Over the weekend, rumours spread about the COAS’s death, and another report alleged that the Defence Headquarters had appointed an acting Chief of Army Staff. In a statement released on Monday, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, denied these claims, clarifying that there is no provision for an acting Chief of Army Staff within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).

Gusau stated that Major General Abdulsalam Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, has been providing routine briefings to the COAS during his leave, following standard operating procedures. “The Defence Headquarters wishes to clarify that no senior officer has been appointed as Acting Chief of Army Staff, as falsely reported by some media outlets,” Gusau said. He emphasised that Lt. Gen. Lagbaja is on a “well-deserved” annual leave and will resume duties shortly.

Brigadier General Gusau urged individuals spreading false reports about the Army to desist and encouraged media outlets to verify information before publishing. He also noted that the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, had spoken directly with Lagbaja and confirmed his good health. “The COAS is hale and hearty and will soon resume his duties at the end of his leave,” Gusau added. 

He reiterated the importance of accurate reporting, warning against the spread of misinformation.