Defence Headquarters Refutes Acting COAS Appointment, Cautions Against Military Takeover Proposals

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has refuted claims regarding the appointment of an Acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and cautioned against any calls for military takeover, reaffirming commitment to democratic governance.

The Nigerian Army has refuted media claims of a leadership gap due to the absence of Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja.

It also warned that advocating for a military coup is considered an act of treason according to the law.

The clarification was provided in a statement issued by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defence Information, on Monday. This followed the emergence of a viral video showing individuals angrily demanding a military takeover.

It also clarified that Taoreed Lagbaja, who is currently on annual leave, was never replaced by an acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS).

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) wants to clarify that it has not announced the appointment of any senior officer as the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), contrary to some media reports. To set the record straight, no such appointment currently exists within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).

Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, is presently taking his well-deserved 2024 annual leave. The Armed Forces of Nigeria are professionally managed, with all Service Chiefs performing their constitutionally mandated duties. Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim, Chief of Policy and Plans, provides routine updates to the COAS following standard military procedures.

The DHQ strongly advises those spreading baseless rumors to stop immediately. The COAS is in good health and will return to his regular duties once his leave concludes.

Furthermore, people supporting a military takeover, as depicted in a viral video, should recognize that such actions are considered treasonous under the Constitution.

The AFN firmly upholds the preservation and progress of our democracy, demonstrating loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The military is dedicated to fulfilling its statutory responsibilities in safeguarding the nation’s integrity.

Today’s relative peace is a direct outcome of the President’s support for the military and the commitment shown by AFN leadership.

In line with this goal, the AFN and relevant security agencies have been instructed to take appropriate measures against any individuals or groups promoting unconstitutional changes in the country. The CDS expresses gratitude to Nigerians for their support and prayers, affirming that victory is assured.

It urged media organizations to verify information with the relevant authorities before disseminating false news to the public. The CDS had just spoken with the COAS a few minutes earlier.