Defence Headquarters Debunks Coup Rumour, Says Independence Anniversary Cancellation Not Linked to Alleged Plot
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed as false and malicious a report by an online platform alleging that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was connected to an attempted military coup.
In a statement issued on Saturday and signed by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, the DHQ described the publication as “deliberate misinformation” aimed at inciting fear and creating tension in the country.
“The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to a false and misleading report insinuating that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an alleged attempted military coup,” the statement read. “For the avoidance of doubt, the DHQ never mentioned any coup attempt in any of its statements.”
According to the DHQ, the decision to cancel the Independence Day parade was made to enable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu attend a “strategic bilateral meeting outside the country” and to allow the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) maintain operational momentum in ongoing counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency and anti-banditry operations nationwide.
The military also faulted attempts to link the development with the recent arrest and investigation of sixteen officers, clarifying that their case was a routine disciplinary matter.
“The ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is purely an internal military process to uphold discipline and professionalism within the Armed Forces. An investigative panel has been set up, and its findings will be made public,” the DHQ explained.
Reaffirming the military’s commitment to democratic governance, the statement added: “The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. Democracy is forever.”
The DHQ urged Nigerians to ignore what it described as “falsehoods circulated by enemies of the nation,” and called for continued public support for security agencies working to restore peace across the country.
“The Federal Government, the legislature and the judiciary are united in their commitment to national security, development and the well-being of citizens. We urge patriotic Nigerians to disregard the malicious report and remain law-abiding,” the statement added.
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