In the era of social media and the rapid spread of information, fake news has become an unfortunate reality. The recent health rumors surrounding Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, is one such case. This situation highlights not only the dangers of misinformation but also the importance of supporting the nation’s military leadership during sensitive times. Here’s a detailed examination of the incident, the facts, and why it is crucial for Nigerians to reject these harmful rumors.
The Power of Fake News in Today’s Digital Age
The rise of social media has undoubtedly changed how information is shared and consumed. Unfortunately, it has also made it easier for rumors and fake news to spread like wildfire. This was evident in the case of Lt-Gen. Lagbaja, who became the subject of false reports concerning his health.
It all began when Jackson Ude, a former Director of Strategy and Communication to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, posted on social media claiming that the Chief of Army Staff had passed away. In his post, Ude alleged that Lagbaja had died from cancer while receiving treatment abroad. The post, titled “Chief of Army Staff Dies of Cancer,” claimed to have inside information from a senior government official and quickly gained traction, raising concerns and sparking confusion among the public.
Army’s Swift Response to the Rumors
In response to the swirling rumors, the Nigerian Army swiftly issued a statement categorically denying the claims. According to the Army Headquarters, the reports were entirely baseless and should be regarded as fake news.
Lt-Gen. Lagbaja, who had traveled abroad for medical checkups, was in good spirits and on the path to recovery. The Army confirmed that there was no truth to the rumors of his death and that he had even spoken with President Bola Tinubu, who prayed for his swift recovery.
According to sources at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), President Tinubu was relieved to hear from the army chief directly, underscoring that the general was recuperating and not in any critical condition. “He held a clear conversation with the president and was in high spirits. The president was very happy and prayed fervently for his quick recovery,” the source explained.
This direct communication between President Tinubu and the Chief of Army Staff has firmly debunked the rumors of his death. It also serves as a reminder that not every piece of information shared on social media should be taken at face value, especially when it concerns high-ranking public officials.
The Importance of Accurate Information
Misinformation, especially about the health and well-being of key national figures, can have far-reaching consequences. It creates unnecessary panic, distracts from important national issues, and can even destabilize governance structures. The Army Headquarters, through its Director of Army Public Relations, Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, emphasized that despite the absence of the COAS due to medical reasons, there was no leadership vacuum within the military.
Maj. Gen. Nwachukwu confirmed that the Chief of Army Staff had indeed traveled abroad for medical investigations, a move he was fully entitled to as a public servant. However, prior to his departure, Lt-Gen. Lagbaja made sure to follow all legal and procedural requirements by handing over responsibilities to his subordinates. The Army’s operations, promotions, and regular duties continued as planned under the guidance of Maj. Gen. Kevin Aligbe, the Commander of the Training and Doctrine Command, and the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), ensuring no disruption in leadership.
“This is not the first time we have seen service chiefs take extended leaves due to health reasons,” Nwachukwu clarified, citing several examples from the past where top military officers were temporarily absent, with others stepping in to maintain the smooth functioning of the armed forces.
He also refuted the false narrative that the absence of the COAS was causing a delay in the release of the promotion exam results, confirming that these results had been announced in accordance with existing procedures. These clarifications further dismantled the falsehoods propagated by detractors and reinforced the professionalism within the Nigerian Army.
A Call for National Unity and Responsibility
The recent spread of rumors around Lt-Gen. Lagbaja’s health underscores the dangers of a society quick to believe and spread unverified information. While the fake news about the COAS’s death was swiftly debunked, the psychological and emotional toll on his family, colleagues, and the general public cannot be overstated. Such rumors only serve to distract from the critical work the Nigerian Army is doing to ensure the nation’s security.
A pro-Tinubu group, the Renewed Hope Agenda The Way Forward (RHATWF), also weighed in on the matter, urging Nigerians to disregard the rumors and instead offer support to the Chief of Army Staff. Sam Atasia Oburu, the group’s chairman and convener, pointed out that as a Muslim, if Lagbaja had indeed passed away, he would have been buried almost immediately, following Islamic rites. This simple fact alone should have been enough to dismiss the rumors.
Oburu emphasized that Lt-Gen. Lagbaja’s absence was due to an annual leave and routine medical checkup, all of which were legally sanctioned. Before departing, he fulfilled all obligations by handing over responsibilities to qualified subordinates, ensuring that military operations continued seamlessly. “It is rather very disappointing that some individuals, who neither have a knowledge of his current situation nor access to any of his family members, will rush to social media to announce the death of a man in very stable health,” Oburu lamented.
Lagbaja’s Leadership and Dedication to Nigeria’s Security
Since assuming his role as Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Lagbaja has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to national security. He has been a pivotal figure in the fight against insurgency in the North, militancy in the Niger Delta, secessionist movements in the Southeast, and the farmers-herders conflict in the Middle Belt.
His approach to leadership has been marked by fairness and objectivity, as seen in his unbiased redeployment of officers across the country. Major Generals, Brigadier Generals, and other senior military officers have been appointed based on merit and the nation’s security needs, not regional or ethnic favoritism. His efforts in personnel development through training, promotions, and leadership exercises have also earned him respect within and outside the military.
The Renewed Hope Agenda group praised his commitment to a united Nigeria, highlighting that his strategic moves have significantly strengthened national cohesion. The group’s statement called for prayers for his health and swift return to his duties, emphasizing that Lt-Gen. Lagbaja is an indispensable leader in the fight against terrorism and other security challenges plaguing the country.
Addressing the Broader Issue of Misinformation
The rapid spread of fake news is not unique to Nigeria. Across the world, misinformation has become a serious threat to public trust, governance, and societal harmony. From health scares to political rumors, the ease with which unverified information can be disseminated online poses a challenge for authorities and citizens alike.
In this case, the fake news surrounding Lt-Gen. Lagbaja’s health has highlighted the need for individuals to be more discerning in the content they consume and share. Social media platforms, while invaluable for staying connected and informed, are also breeding grounds for falsehoods.
Combatting this trend requires a concerted effort from both the government and the public. Authorities must continue to issue timely and accurate information to counter false narratives, while citizens must practice caution and skepticism when encountering unverified news, particularly on sensitive national issues.
Conclusion: Supporting the Chief of Army Staff and the Nation
In conclusion, the health rumors surrounding Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, were nothing more than baseless claims spread by mischief-makers. The Nigerian Army, the Presidency, and the Renewed Hope Agenda group have all categorically debunked these rumors, affirming that Lagbaja is alive, recovering, and very much in control of the Army’s affairs, even in his temporary absence.
As Nigerians, it is essential to reject the divisive and harmful influence of fake news. Instead, we must focus on supporting our leaders, particularly those like Lt-Gen. Lagbaja, who have dedicated their lives to ensuring the safety and security of the nation. By staying united and vigilant against misinformation, we can build a stronger, more resilient Nigeria.
Let us all wish the Chief of Army Staff a speedy recovery and anticipate his return, ready to continue the critical work of defending our beloved country from threats, both internal and external.