As concerns grow over the health of Nigeria's Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, competition is heating up among senior military officials eager to take his place. Lagbaja, who has been absent from public duties for weeks due to an undisclosed health issue, was reportedly flown abroad for medical treatment, prompting speculation about his future in the role.
Appointed in June 2023 by President Bola Tinubu, Lagbaja's tenure as the 27th Chief of Army Staff began on June 23, when he replaced Faruk Yahaya. His current condition has raised alarms within the military, leading to increased lobbying efforts from top officers seeking to secure their positions as potential successors.
Sources indicate that Lagbaja's ailment is “strange,” and his recent absence from key military events, such as the Independence Day parade, has not gone unnoticed. A major within the army noted the unusual nature of Lagbaja's absence, particularly during significant occasions, and expressed concern that without a leader, many officers felt uncertain about their roles.
Reports from multiple sources reveal that Lagbaja's health has deteriorated, with him reportedly bedridden and unable to communicate effectively. As he faces serious health challenges, senior military figures are actively campaigning for influence, seeking support from politicians, traditional leaders, and military veterans to bolster their chances of assuming command.
The implications of Lagbaja's potential departure are significant. As a seasoned military officer with extensive experience in various command and staff roles, including serving as General Officer Commanding at both Headquarters 82 Division and Headquarters 1 Division, his leadership has been vital to the Nigerian Army.
If Lagbaja's condition does not improve, the next Chief of Army Staff will face numerous challenges, particularly in navigating the current security landscape in Nigeria. One insider commented that no president would likely keep Lagbaja in command if his health continues to decline.
The Army's spokesman, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, addressed rumors surrounding Lagbaja's condition, stating that the Chief of Army Staff was on leave and entitled to it after years of dedicated service. He emphasized that taking time off for medical check-ups or rest should not be stigmatized, noting his own experiences without leave for an extended period.
With the competition for Lagbaja's position intensifying, the military community watches closely as the situation unfolds, mindful of the critical decisions that lie ahead for the Nigerian Army in light of ongoing security concerns.
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