The Nigerian Army has firmly refuted claims circulating on social media that Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has passed away. The rumors stemmed from a post by a Nigerian journalist, alleging that Lagbaja died of stage three cancer in an undisclosed hospital overseas.
In response to the viral post, the Army labeled the reports as fake news. However, sources within the Army Headquarters have confirmed that while Lagbaja is not deceased, he is critically ill and currently seeking medical treatment abroad.
One source urged the public to pray for his recovery rather than spread unfounded rumors.
“It’s important to clarify that the COAS is not dead. He is only critically ill at the moment,” one source stated. Another confirmed he is receiving treatment outside the country and stressed that there’s no way such news could be concealed if it were true
The situation unfolds as the Army recently held a ceremony to retire 15 Generals from the Artillery Corps, including 11 Major Generals and four Brigadier Generals. During the event, held at the Nigerian Army School of Artillery in Kaduna, retired Major General James Myam reflected on their military careers and expressed gratitude to both the Army and President Bola Tinubu.
As the Army navigates these turbulent rumors, it continues to emphasize its commitment to maintaining operational integrity and leadership continuity.
