Lagbaja Rejects Calls for Military Takeover, Emphasizes Commitment to Democracy

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has affirmed that the Nigerian military will not be used to undemocratically advance the interests of any group or individual.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the COAS Combined 2nd and 3rd Quarters Conference in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, on Tuesday, Lagbaja stated that the military remains steadfast in its commitment to uphold democracy and will not respond to calls for a military takeover.

Lagbaja criticized those advocating for a return to military rule, suggesting that these individuals are largely younger Nigerians who have never experienced the realities of military governance.

“The Nigerian Army will not allow itself to be used to undemocratically sail some interests to power,” he said. “As the service that received the most image bashing as a fallout of previous military interventions in Nigeria, the Nigerian Army is not poised to lose the new prestige it has painstakingly built in the past 25 years.”

He emphasized that the Nigerian Army values the democratic gains made over the past decades and is committed to maintaining the nation’s stability and unity under democratic governance.

Lagbaja also highlighted the ongoing support the military receives from the government at both national and state levels. This includes recent acquisitions such as two BELL UH-1 Huey helicopters, equipped with advanced sensors and capabilities for a variety of missions, including reconnaissance, surveillance, logistics, and medical evacuation.

Additionally, he assured that the welfare of widows and family members of fallen soldiers remains a priority for the military.

Reflecting on the recent nationwide protests over hunger, the Army Chief noted that these events were a stark reminder that the military must not only focus on physical security and defense but also recognize how issues like food and social security can escalate into broader security challenges.

Lt. Gen. Lagbaja’s remarks underscore the Nigerian Army’s firm stance on supporting democratic principles and refusing to be swayed by undemocratic pressures.