Communication with President Tinubu
To address concerns regarding his health, Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, spoke directly with President Bola Tinubu. This conversation reassured the president, who expressed happiness and offered prayers for the army chief’s swift recovery. The dialogue underscored the importance of leadership communication in maintaining public trust amidst unsettling speculation.
Dismissal of Death Rumours
Communication from the Army Headquarters categorically dismissed the swirling death rumours surrounding Lt-Gen. Lagbaja, labeling them as misinformation. The army confirmed he was abroad for routine medical check-ups, not for any life-threatening condition.
A statement from the Director of Army Public Relations, Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, emphasized that Lt-Gen. Lagbaja was in good spirits and engaged in clear conversations. The report of his death, attributed to unreliable sources, was firmly rejected. As reaffirmed by a pro-Tinubu group, such unfounded claims only aim to undermine his leadership and dedication to national security.
Statement from Army Headquarters
Now, the Army Headquarters has explicitly dismissed the death rumor about Chief of Army Staff Lt-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja as fake news. A spokesperson confirmed that the COAS is indeed recuperating after undergoing routine medical check-ups abroad, contrary to misleading claims circulating on social media. The army stated that all internal operations continue smoothly in his absence, dispelling any notions of a leadership vacuum within the Nigerian Army.
Remarks from Pro-Tinubu Group
Clearly, the pro-Tinubu group, Renewed Hope Agenda The Way Forward, urged Nigerians to dismiss the death rumor surrounding the Chief of Army Staff, affirming that he is alive and in stable health. The group emphasized that Lt-Gen. Lagbaja had fulfilled all legal processes prior to his leave, which included ensuring that responsibilities were delegated effectively during his absence.
For instance, the group articulated disappointment over the spread of false information, highlighting that it harms both the COAS’s reputation and ongoing military efforts. They reiterated his commitment to tackling issues like terrorism, militancy, and regional conflicts across Nigeria. They emphasized the significance of supporting the COAS during his recovery and vacation, reinforcing their confidence in his leadership and forthcoming return to duty.
Recent Travel for Medical Checkup
With recent travels for a medical checkup abroad, Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has taken the necessary steps to ensure his health while on leave. During a conversation with President Bola Tinubu, he confirmed his stable health and reassured the president of his swift recovery from the medical investigation. This visit is part of his routine checks, and it is important for you to understand that such measures are standard practice for public officials.
Clarification on Leadership Structure during Absence
Little has been left to speculation regarding the leadership structure of the Nigerian Army during Lt-Gen. Lagbaja’s absence. The Army Public Relations Director, Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, emphasized that all operations continue seamlessly under the Commander of Training and Doctrine Command, who has assumed responsibilities in Lagbaja’s absence.
Information provided by the Army clarifies that Major General Kevin Aligbe is currently overseeing operations, demonstrating the established protocols in place for continuity of command. You can rest assured that routine activities remain unaffected, as the Chief of Policy and Plans is managing day-to-day operations efficiently. This structured hierarchy underscores the Nigerian Army’s resilience in maintaining stability, even during the temporary absence of its leader.
Impact on National Security Operations
For Nigeria’s security landscape, the health status of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, is significant due to his role in coordinating military strategies against various threats. As he recuperates, you can be assured that the military is functioning effectively under the leadership of acting officials like the Chief of Policy and Plans, ensuring that operational activities continue without disruption, as confirmed by Army Public Relations representatives.
Call for Public Support and Integrity
Public trust in the military’s leadership is vital, especially in times when misleading information circulates about their well-being. You are encouraged to disregard rumors about the COAS’s health, as it distracts from the ongoing efforts to enhance national security. The Renewed Hope Agenda appeals for your support to maintain a united front against such misinformation.
This misinformation can undermine the public’s confidence in the military’s ongoing initiatives to battle insurgency, militancy, and other security challenges. It is important for you to stay informed and support the efforts of the armed forces, which are diligently working under proper protocols in the absence of the COAS. Your role as a concerned citizen is vital in countering misleading narratives that may hinder the military’s mission and overall effectiveness in safeguarding Nigeria’s security. By advocating for honest communications and remaining vigilant against fake news, you help foster a more supportive environment for those defending the nation.
JUST IN: Chief of Army Staff, Taoreed Lagbaja is undergoing medical treatment abroad
— Nigeria Stories (@NigeriaStories) October 20, 2024
~ Nigeria Defence Headquarter pic.twitter.com/EXo4rdcASc
Summing up
From above, you can see that Chief of Army Staff Taoreed Lagbaja has actively communicated with President Bola Tinubu regarding his health, dispelling false rumors of his death. The Nigerian Army has confirmed that Lagbaja is recuperating from a routine medical checkup abroad, maintaining full operational capabilities during his absence. Various groups, including the Renewed Hope Agenda, have urged the public to disregard the misinformation and support Lagbaja’s recovery while highlighting his commitment to national security and unity.
