The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has described as false and malicious, reports alleging that the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary activities was linked to an attempted coup by some military officers.
An online platform, Sahara Reporters, had claimed that 16 military officers — from the rank of Captain to Brigadier General — were arrested by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) for allegedly holding secret meetings to overthrow the government. The report further suggested that the Independence Day parade, earlier scheduled for October 1, was cancelled due to the purported plot.
However, in a statement issued on Saturday by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the military dismissed the publication as “false, malicious, and intended to create tension and distrust among Nigerians.”
“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 claims are entirely false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace,” the statement read in part.
Gusau explained that the decision to cancel the Independence Day parade was purely administrative and taken to allow President Bola Tinubu to attend a strategic bilateral meeting abroad, while also enabling troops to sustain ongoing military operations across the country.
“The decision was to allow Mr. President to attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country and for members of the Armed Forces to sustain the momentum in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry,” he stated.
Addressing reports on the detention of 16 officers, the DHQ clarified that the matter was an internal disciplinary process, not related to any coup attempt.
“The ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism within the ranks. An investigative panel has been constituted, and its findings will be made public,” Gusau said.
Reaffirming the Armed Forces’ loyalty to the Constitution and democratic governance, the DHQ urged Nigerians to disregard false rumours and continue to support the nation’s security agencies.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Tinubu. Democracy is forever,” Gusau affirmed.
He further called on citizens to unite in promoting peace and national stability, noting that the executive, legislature, and judiciary continue to work together to ensure the safety, development, and well-being of all Nigerians.
