The Nigerian Army has debunked rumours surrounding the death of its Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, describing such claims as fake news. Contrary to speculations, it was confirmed that the COAS is recuperating after a medical checkup abroad and remains in high spirits.
A source from the Defence Headquarters disclosed that President Bola Tinubu had a conversation with Lagbaja, who reassured the president of his recovery. “The president was happy to hear his voice and prayed for his quick recovery,” the source added.
The death rumour, initially spread by Jackson Ude, a former communications director for ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, was quickly dismissed by the Army Headquarters. Ude had falsely claimed that the COAS passed away from cancer at an undisclosed hospital abroad.
Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, also dismissed allegations that the Nigerian Army was operating without leadership in Lagbaja’s absence. He clarified that Maj. Gen. Kevin Aligbe, Commander of Training and Doctrine Command, was handling operations in line with established procedures, ensuring no disruption in military activities.
Nwachukwu also highlighted that this was not the first time a service chief had a prolonged absence for medical reasons, emphasizing that all military activities, including promotions and routine tasks, were continuing as planned.
Meanwhile, the Renewed Hope Agenda The Way Forward (RHATWF), a pro-Tinubu group, also condemned the death rumours. Sam Atasia Oburu, the group’s chairman, urged Nigerians to disregard the false information and pray for the COAS’s quick recovery. The group praised Lagbaja’s efforts in maintaining national security across different regions and reaffirmed that the COAS had followed all legal protocols before taking his leave.
Lt-Gen. Lagbaja’s absence has not disrupted the chain of command, and the Nigerian Army remains focused on its mission to protect the nation’s security.