News

BREAKING: Chief Of Army Staff Lagbaja Calls Tinubu, Clarifies Health Status

Published

2 months ago

Oct 21, 2024.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has dispelled rumors surrounding his death by personally briefing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his health status.

Contrary to the circulating rumors, Lagbaja is alive and recovering well.

EKO HOT BLOG reports that a source at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) revealed that President Tinubu expressed relief upon hearing directly from Lagbaja and conveyed his joy and prayers for a swift recovery.

EDITOR’S PICKS

“The president spoke to Lagbaja, who held a clear conversation and was in high spirits. The president was very happy and prayed fervently for his quick recovery,” the source noted.

This source further affirmed that the rumors of Lagbaja’s death are unfounded, stating, “I can tell you, therefore, that the rumor about his death is not correct. This information is authentic and rubbishes the ungodly rumor about his death. He is recuperating and not dead.”

The Nigerian Army Headquarters has also categorically dismissed these rumors as “fake news.”

The speculation gained traction following a social media post from Jackson Ude, a former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, who alleged that Lagbaja had died of cancer in an undisclosed foreign hospital.

Army officials reacted swiftly to refute these claims, emphasizing that Lagbaja is recovering and in good spirits. The Director of Army Public Relations, Maj. Gen.

Onyema Nwachukwu, confirmed that Lagbaja had traveled abroad for medical checkups but assured that he is entitled to such leave as a public officer.

He also dismissed rumors that the army was in disarray due to the Chief of Army Staff’s absence, clarifying that all routine military operations remain on track.

Lagbaja Health Tinubu

In Lagbaja’s absence, Maj. Gen. Kevin Aligbe, Commander of Training and Doctrine Command, has been authorized to announce promotions within the army, ensuring continuity in leadership.

Additionally, the pro-Tinubu group, “The Renewed Hope Agenda,” called on Nigerians to disregard the false rumors.

The group’s convener, Sam Atasia Oburu, confirmed that Lagbaja had completed all legal processes required before proceeding on leave and lamented the misinformation spread by mischief-makers.

They praised Lagbaja for his national service, particularly his efforts against insurgency, militancy, and other security challenges across the country, urging Nigerians to continue supporting his work.