The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) yesterday said nobody has been appointed as acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS).
According the military authorities, no such position exists in their hierarchy.
They also warned those calling for military intervention in politics to desist or be made to face the law.
The clarification came after reports in the social media about the alleged demise of the COAS, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
The Nigerian Army authority at the weekend clarified that Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja was on medical vacation abroad. It explained that before the COAS proceeded on leave, necessary protocols were put in place.
In yesterday’s statement, the DHQ said: “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 Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, is currently on a well-deserved rest as part of his 2024 annual leave. The Armed Forces of Nigeria is professionally managed and all the Service Chiefs are performing their duties as stipulated in the Constitution of the FGN. Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, is providing routine briefs to the COAS in accordance with standard military procedures.
“The DHQ urges individuals spreading unfounded rumours to desist from doing so immediately. The COAS is hale and hearty and will soon resume normal duties at the end of his leave.
“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 DHQ assured the people that the military was committed to the preservation and advancement of our democracy, and loyal to President and Commander-in-Chief, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
It said: “The military remains focused on achieving its statutory responsibilities of protecting the nation’s integrity.
“To this end, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and relevant security agencies have been mandated to take necessary action against any individual or group advocating for unconstitutional changes in the country.”
