The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has clarified that there is no appointment of an acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS) within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN). In a statement released on Monday, Director of Defence Information, Tukur Gusau, emphasized that Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim remains the Chief of Policy and Plans and has not assumed the role of acting COAS, contrary to recent media reports.
The statement further confirmed that Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja is the current COAS. He is currently on a scheduled 2024 annual leave and will resume his duties after his leave period. During his absence, Major General Ibrahim provides routine updates to the COAS as part of the standard operating procedure.
“The Defence Headquarters 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,” the statement read. It urged media outlets to verify their information to prevent the spread of false reports, emphasizing that the COAS is in good health and will resume his duties soon.
Military Denounces Calls for Coup, Pledges Allegiance to President Tinubu
In the same statement, the DHQ dismissed calls for a military takeover of power, reiterating the military’s unwavering loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Tukur Gusau highlighted that such calls, including those made in a circulating video, are unconstitutional and amount to treason.
He emphasized the military’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s democracy and its focus on its constitutional duties, including safeguarding national integrity. Gusau also acknowledged the role of President Tinubu’s support in maintaining the relative peace in the country.
“Those advocating for a military takeover should be aware that such actions are treasonable under the Constitution,” he warned. The statement reaffirmed the readiness of the Armed Forces and security agencies to take necessary actions against any individual or group seeking unconstitutional changes in the country.
The DHQ expressed appreciation for the support and prayers from Nigerians and reassured the public of the military’s dedication to its duties, emphasizing that “victory is assured” in maintaining peace and stability.
