Concerns Rise Over Absence of Nigeria's Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja

 

Widespread concern has emerged among military officials regarding the prolonged absence of Nigeria's Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja. Security sources indicate that his lack of presence at official duties has stirred controversy within the ranks of top generals.

Lagbaja, who was born on February 28, 1968, in Ilobu, Osun State, was appointed as the 27th Chief of Army Staff by President Bola Tinubu on June 19, 2023. However, reports suggest that his absence has been compounded by claims that family members have restricted his public visibility. As speculation grows, many are awaiting an official clarification regarding Lagbaja's situation.

Recent checks on the Nigerian Army's social media accounts reveal that Lagbaja's last public appearance occurred on September 10, 2024, during the inauguration of civil-military cooperation projects in Okuku, Osun State. Since then, high-ranking military officials have represented him at key events, including a graduation dinner for the Army War College Nigeria Course 8/2024 on October 2, 2024, where Lagbaja was expected to be the chief host.

Additionally, he was absent from the significant combined passing-out parade for the 71 Regular Course of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, held on September 28, which marked the graduation of cadets from the Nigerian Defence Academy.

Concerns are heightened by reports that Lagbaja has not been seen at the Army Headquarters in Abuja for the past three weeks. A soldier at the headquarters noted the unusual absence of his official vehicle during this time.

Sources have indicated that Lagbaja was taken abroad by family members for medical treatment. A close officer revealed, "The Chief of Army Staff has not been seen for many days now. I can confirm that he is seriously ill and has been moved out of the country for medical care." This officer emphasized the need for leadership during his absence, stating, "Some of the Major Generals are acting without guidance because they have no one to report to currently."

Another military officer acknowledged awareness of Lagbaja's absence during the October 1 Independence Day parade in Abuja and confirmed that he had been informed he was out of the country. Concerns have also arisen regarding pending promotions for soldiers, as the Chief of Administration cannot approve them in Lagbaja's absence, leading to frustrations among junior soldiers.

In response to the concerns, Army spokesperson Major General Onyema Nwachukwu addressed the situation, stating that the Army Chief is on leave and entitled to take time off after years of service. He defended the notion of military personnel taking breaks for medical check-ups and vacations, emphasizing that it is not abnormal for anyone to seek medical attention.

Nwachukwu urged understanding regarding the sacrifices made by soldiers and reiterated that there should be no stigma attached to a military leader taking necessary time for health reasons.