The Nigerian Army has firmly refuted reports claiming that the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Taoreed Lagbaja, has resigned. On Monday, the Army responded to the false information that circulated widely on social media, categorizing it as fake news.
According to the unverified report, Lagbaja had allegedly submitted his resignation letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. However, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, urged the public to disregard these claims. “It is fake news; please disregard it,” he emphasized in a statement to The Punch.
In a related development, President Tinubu has issued new directives to security agencies, instructing them to intensify efforts against cybercriminals and organized crime groups. The President stated that agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) must enhance their operations to target individuals involved in the possession and trafficking of stolen vehicles. He stressed that Nigeria should not be seen as a destination for stolen goods or illicit wealth.
This announcement followed a statement from his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, regarding the recent transfer of 53 vehicles and $180,300 by the EFCC to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). These items were returned to two Canadian citizens who fell victim to cybercrimes orchestrated by Nigerian nationals.
While acknowledging the EFCC’s efforts, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to combating criminal activities.
In another development, Professor Banji Akintoye, the National Leader of the Yoruba Self-Determination Movement, renewed calls for the separation of the Yoruba nation from Nigeria. He urged South West Governors and traditional leaders to declare September 23 as Yoruba Unity Day. Akintoye claimed that Fulani bandits have killed approximately 29,000 Yoruba individuals and continue to perpetrate acts of violence against women and communities.
In a statement commemorating Yoruba Unity Day, the renowned historian emphasized that, given the ongoing threats to life and agriculture, the only viable option remaining is the pursuit of independence for the Yoruba nation.
Peoplesmind
