Nigerian Army Refutes COAS Death Rumors, Announces Retirement of 15 Generals

On Sunday, the Nigerian Army dismissed claims circulating on social media regarding the death of Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja. The rumors stemmed from a post by a Nigerian journalist who alleged that Lagbaja passed away from cancer two days prior.

The journalist’s post stated, “The Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, has died. He succumbed to stage three cancer in an undisclosed hospital overseas, according to a senior government source. The news has been kept under wraps due to lobbying from certain Generals vying for his position.”

Lt Gen Lagbaja, born on February 28, 1968, in Ilobu, Osun State, was appointed by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023 as the 27th Chief of Army Staff.

In response, the Nigerian Army labeled the reports as false. However, sources within the Army Headquarters confirmed that the Army chief is critically ill. One source stated, “The COAS is not deceased. He is currently critically ill, and we should be praying for him rather than spreading unfounded rumors.”

Another insider indicated that he is abroad receiving treatment, saying, “He is out of the country for medical care. I have not heard any confirmation of his death from anyone close to him, and such information would be impossible to conceal.”

The Director of Army Public Relations, Maj Gen Onyema Nwachukwu, could not be reached for comment as his phone was turned off.

This development coincided with the retirement of 15 Generals from the Nigerian Army. The retirees, primarily from the Artillery Corps, play a crucial role in providing heavy firepower support on the battlefield. According to reports, the group consists of 11 Major Generals and four Brigadier Generals, and their retirement was formally announced in a ceremony at the Nigerian Army School of Artillery in Kaduna State.

In a statement shared on X, the Army said, “On Saturday, October 19, 2024, we officially retired 15 Generals from the Artillery Corps during a ceremony at the Nigerian Army School of Artillery in Kachia, Kaduna State.”

During the ceremony, Maj Gen James Myam (retd) spoke on behalf of the retirees, reflecting on their fulfilling military careers. He expressed gratitude for divine guidance throughout their service and thanked President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, as well as extending wishes for strength and wisdom to Lt Gen Lagbaja.

Maj Gen Myam reminisced about their beginnings as Officer Cadets at the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna and urged current officers to remain loyal to the constitution and the democratically elected government while staying vigilant.

He also expressed appreciation to family, friends, mentors, and instructors who supported them throughout their careers. The event was attended by several senior retired and active military officials, including former Chief of Army Staff, Maj Gen Alwali Kazir (retd).

Written By: Praise Inalegwu

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