Top Generals eye Chief of Army Staff post as Lagbaja takes leave for health reasons

Indications have emerged that some senior Army generals are actively lobbying for the position of Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) amid reports that the current COAS, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, is undergoing treatment for an undisclosed health issue at a foreign hospital.

Sources suggest that Lagbaja’s health has significantly deteriorated, raising concerns about his ability to perform his duties effectively.

An online report from Saharareporters claims that he is now bedridden and incapable of hearing what people are saying, prompting fears within the military establishment.

In response to the reports, the Army Headquarters (AHQ) clarified through spokesperson Major General Onyema Nwachukwu that Lagbaja is on leave and assured the public that Major General Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim is acting in his stead.

Nwachukwu emphasized that there is no leadership vacuum within the Army and that all operational activities are ongoing.

He stated, “This is not peculiar to the Nigerian Army as there have been instances where unforeseen human frailty kept service chiefs away for about three months.”

Despite the reassurances, the uncertainty surrounding Lagbaja’s health has prompted speculation among officers, particularly those from the Regular 40 and 41 intakes, who are reportedly engaging in underground lobbying with traditional rulers, National Assembly members, and former heads of state for consideration for the next COAS.

Vanguard reports that the absence of Lagbaja at significant events, including the October 1 independence celebrations and a recent burial ceremony for Major General Seidu Inaboya Musa, has fueled further discussion about the leadership dynamics within the Army.

Concerns regarding Lagbaja’s health have also been echoed by sources who noted his conspicuous absence from military functions in recent weeks, prompting discussions about the need for someone in charge during this critical time.

Lagbaja, who was appointed as the 27th Chief of Army Staff by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023, is a seasoned operational officer with a wealth of experience in various command and staff roles.