The rumor spread via an X handle, where a user alleged that the Chief of Army Staff, Lagbaja, had passed away due to stage three cancer after spending 48 hours in an undisclosed hospital outside Nigeria.
“The Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, has died. Lagbaja died in an undisclosed hospital overseas nearly 48 hours ago from stage three cancer, according to a senior government official,” the post stated.
“The death of the Chief of Army Staff has been kept secret because of intense lobbying by some generals who want to take the position.”
“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.”
This claim surfaced shortly after the passing-out parade of 15 Artillery Corps generals.
It was confirmed that COAS Lagbaja was critically ill, but he is alive, urging the public to pray for his recovery.
Responding to the viral post made on X, the Nigerian Army confirmed that the news is false.
In a separate event, the NA, via its X handle, officially announced the retirement of 15 Artillery Corps generals on Saturday.
The retirement ceremony took place at the Nigerian Army School of Artillery (NASA) in Kachia, Kaduna State.
The NA shared that a group of 11 Major Generals and 4 Brigadier Generals were retired.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues during the pulling-out parade, Maj Gen James Myam (rtd) expressed fulfillment and gratitude while reflecting on their long military careers.
He attributed their efforts and achievements to divine grace, acknowledging God’s protection throughout their years of service.
He thanked President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and also appreciated the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, wishing him more strength and wisdom in his leadership role in the NA.
Additionally, he said, “Looking back,” Maj Gen Myam recalled the beginning of their military journeys when they reported to the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna as Officer Cadets.
He offered advice to the officers still in service, urging them to remain loyal to the Constitution and the democratically elected government while maintaining vigilance and security consciousness.
The statement noted, “The retired general also expressed gratitude to the families, spouses, friends, instructors, and mentors who supported them throughout their careers.”
Attendees at the event included several senior retired and serving military officers, and former Chief of Army Staff, Maj Gen Alwali Kazir (rtd).
By Helen Okechukwu
