Reports have surfaced that some Army generals are lobbying for the position of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) amid concerns about the health of the current COAS, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, who is said to be receiving treatment at a foreign hospital for an undisclosed medical condition.
The Army Headquarters (AHQ), through its spokesman, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, addressed the rumors, stating that Lagbaja is on leave and that all protocols are in place to ensure continuity in leadership during his absence.
Online media outlet SaharaReporters earlier claimed that Lagbaja was flown abroad due to a serious illness that has left him bedridden and unable to communicate, which has caused alarm within military circles. The report mentioned that some generals from the Regular 40 and 41 intakes have begun covertly lobbying for the COAS position, seeking the support of influential figures including traditional rulers, National Assembly members, and former heads of state.
Speculation about Lagbaja’s health grew when he missed the October 1, 2024, Independence Day celebrations at the Presidential Villa and other official events. The AHQ, however, assured the public that the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim, is handling all COAS duties during Lagbaja’s leave, and there is no leadership vacuum.
The Army added that its operations and administrative activities remain on course, including promotion exercises for officers and soldiers. It further expressed gratitude to Nigerians who have shown concern for Lagbaja’s health and assured them that all land-related military activities continue as scheduled.