Oluyede, 56, will oversee the affairs of the army until Lagbaja’s return. As the 56th Commander of the elite Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army, based in Jaji, Kaduna, Oluyede brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He and Lagbaja were course mates and members of the 39th Regular Course.

He was commissioned a second lieutenant in 1992, effective from 1987, and rose to Major-General in September 2020

Oluyede’s military career spans over three decades, with notable positions including Platoon Commander and adjutant at 65 Battalion, Company Commander at 177 Guards Battalion, Staff Officer Guards Brigade, and Commandant Amphibious Training School. He was commissioned a second lieutenant in 1992, effective from 1987, and rose to Major-General in September 2020.

The appointment comes amid speculation about Lagbaja’s health, with some sources claiming he suffered a stroke or dementia. However, the Nigerian Army has dismissed these rumors as “fake news”. The Army’s Director of Public Relations, Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, confirmed that Lagbaja traveled abroad for a medical checkup, contrary to initial reports that he was on leave.

The development has sparked mixed reactions, with some calling for Lagbaja’s resignation and others expressing concern about the country’s leaders seeking medical treatment abroad. Despite this, the Nigerian Army has assured that Lagbaja will return to his duties upon recovery.