The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed as false and misleading a report by an online publication alleging that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was due to a purported attempted military coup.
The report, which has been widely circulated online, claimed that 16 military officers, from the ranks of Captain to Brigadier General, were arrested by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) over alleged involvement in clandestine meetings to overthrow the government.
However, in a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, firmly denied the claims, describing the report as malicious disinformation aimed at inciting fear and distrust among Nigerians.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria categorically states that the claims made by the publication are entirely false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace,” the statement read.
According to the DHQ, the decision to cancel the Independence Day parade was unrelated to any security concerns or internal instability. Rather, it was taken to enable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to attend a key strategic bilateral engagement abroad, while also allowing the military to maintain operational focus in the ongoing campaigns against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.
Routine Military Procedure, Not Coup Plot — DHQ
The DHQ confirmed that an internal investigation involving the 16 officers is underway but stressed that it is part of standard military disciplinary procedures, not a response to any subversive activity.
“An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings will be made public upon conclusion,” it added.
The Defence Headquarters also appealed to Nigerians to disregard the fabricated narrative and continue to support the nation’s security agencies.
“The Federal Government, the legislature, and the judiciary are working closely for the safety, development, and well-being of the nation. Democracy is forever,” the statement affirmed.
The DHQ reiterated the unwavering loyalty of the military to the Constitution and the civilian government.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.”
The military further warned against the spread of misinformation by “enemies of the state” and urged media organisations to uphold professionalism and national interest in their reporting.
