Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Defence Headquarters, Monday, gave stern warning against those calling for military takeover of Government, saying that coup remains a treasonable offense.
This is as the military has refuted media reports that it appointed Chief of Policy and Plans, Major General Abdulsalam Ibrahim, as Acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), following the rumoured death of COAS, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja.
DHQ in a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, said there was no provision for an Acting Chief of Army Staff in the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The statement also refuted the rumoured death of Gen. Lagbaja, describing the reports as fake news.
Recall that General Lagbaja has been on leave and out of the country since September, a development that has fueled speculations about his health.
On Sunday, there were viral reports purporting that he had died of cancer.
Amid the rumours of his death, another report emerged, claiming the DHQ had appointed an acting Chief of Army Staff.
The DHQ statement explained that Major Gen. Ibrahim, “has been providing routine briefs to the Chief of Army Staff under the Standard Operating Procedures.”
It further read: “The Defence Headquarters wishes to clarify that it has not announced the appointment of any senior officer as Acting Chief of Army Staff, contrary to speculation by certain media outlets. For the record, no such appointment exists within the 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 AFN is professionally managed, and all 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 SOP.”
The statement warned peddlers of Lagbaja’s alleged demise as well as coup exponents to retrace their steps or brace up for the consequences of their action.
“The DHQ urges individuals spreading unfounded rumours to desist from doing so immediately.”
According to the statement, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, had spoken with Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, confirming that the COAS is in good health.
The statement said that Gen. Lagbaja would soon resume his duties after completing his leave.
“The COAS is hale and hearty and will soon resume his normal duties at the end of his leave.
“Media organisations are advised to verify information with the appropriate authorities before spreading fake news to the public. The CDS had spoken with the COAS just a few minutes ago.”
DHQ said those calling for the military to take over the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Government, were playing with fire.
Recall that there has been a viral video featuring a group of individuals lamenting the hardships under Tinubu’s administration and urging the military to intervene.
Meanwhile, the statement said that the military remains loyal to Tinubu’s government and will not disrupt his administration.
“Additionally, those advocating for a military takeover, as seen in the viral video, should be aware that such actions are considered treason under the Constitution.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria is steadfastly committed to the preservation and advancement of our democracy and remain loyal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The military is focused on fulfilling its statutory responsibilities, including safeguarding the nation’s integrity.
“The relative peace being enjoyed today is a direct result of the President’s support for the military and the dedication of the AFN leadership.
“To this end, the AFN and relevant security agencies have been mandated to take necessary action against any individual or group advocating for unconstitutional changes in the country.”
