The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed as false and misleading an online report claiming that activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary were cancelled due to an alleged coup attempt.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, and titled “DHQ Never Mentioned Any Coup Attempt,” the military authorities described the report as “malicious” and aimed at sowing tension and distrust among Nigerians.
“The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to a false and misleading report by an online publication insinuating that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an alleged attempted military coup,” the statement read.
The DHQ clarified that the decision to suspend the anniversary parade was purely logistical, explaining that it was to enable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu attend a strategic bilateral engagement abroad and to allow the Armed Forces sustain momentum in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.
It further debunked suggestions that the arrest of sixteen officers recently placed under investigation was connected to any coup attempt, stressing that the ongoing process was an internal disciplinary measure meant to uphold professionalism.
“An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings will be made public,” Gusau stated.
Reassuring Nigerians of the military’s loyalty, the DHQ emphasised that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to democratic governance and the nation’s stability.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains firmly loyal to the Constitution and to the Federal Government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement added.
It urged citizens to disregard the “falsehood being circulated by purveyors of misinformation and enemies of the nation,” while pledging continued collaboration between the executive, legislature, and judiciary to ensure national safety and development.
