The Nigerian Army has refuted recent reports suggesting a leadership crisis due to the absence of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja. It clarified that despite Lagbaja being on his annual leave, there is no leadership gap within the military. The Army also issued a stern warning against individuals calling for a military coup, emphasizing that such actions are treasonable under Nigerian law.
The clarification was made in a statement released on Monday by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information. This followed the circulation of a viral video showing individuals demanding a military takeover. The video stirred concerns about possible unrest, prompting the military to set the record straight.
No Leadership Crisis in the Army
In the statement, the Nigerian Army made it clear that Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja remains the COAS, and no acting COAS has been appointed in his absence. According to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), Lagbaja is on a well-deserved annual leave, as part of standard military procedures, and remains in full communication with his team. Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, is temporarily handling routine briefings and updating Lagbaja during his leave.
“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 read. It also reiterated that Lagbaja is “hale and hearty” and will resume his duties at the end of his leave.
The Military Warns Against Coup Advocacy
Addressing the growing concerns over the video advocating for a military coup, the Nigerian Army strongly condemned such calls. The Army stated that any attempt to encourage an unconstitutional change in government is considered a treasonable offense and will not be tolerated. The DHQ emphasized that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) is firmly committed to preserving Nigeria’s democracy and remains loyal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
“The AFN is professionally managed, and all the Service Chiefs are performing their duties as stipulated in the Constitution of the Federal Government of Nigeria. Additionally, those advocating for a military takeover, as seen in a viral video, should be aware that such actions are treasonable under the Constitution,” the statement warned.
The Army also pointed out that the stability and peace currently being enjoyed in Nigeria are largely due to the government’s support for the military and the leadership’s efforts within the Armed Forces.
Commitment to Democracy and Security
The Nigerian Army reassured the public that the military is focused on protecting the country’s territorial integrity and is dedicated to fulfilling its statutory responsibilities. It emphasized that the Army and other security agencies are prepared to take necessary action against individuals or groups advocating unconstitutional changes in the government.
Furthermore, the statement advised media outlets to verify their information before releasing reports to avoid spreading false news. It underscored the need for responsible journalism, especially concerning matters of national security.
The statement concluded by expressing gratitude to the Nigerian people for their continuous support and prayers, assuring them that victory is assured in safeguarding the nation’s security and democracy.
This clear and firm message from the military aims to quell any fears of instability and ensure the public that Nigeria’s democratic system is intact, with all military officers, including the COAS, fully engaged in their constitutional duties.
