The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has firmly denied claims suggesting that the cancellation of events marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an alleged attempted military coup.
An online publication had alleged that 16 military officers, from the rank of Captain to Brigadier General, were detained by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) over purported covert meetings to overthrow the government.
In a statement released on Saturday in Abuja, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, described the report as “false, malicious, and designed to incite unnecessary tension and distrust among citizens.”
According to the DHQ, the decision to cancel the Independence Day parade was purely strategic, intended to allow President Bola Tinubu to attend an important bilateral meeting abroad and to enable the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to maintain focus on ongoing operations against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.
The statement clarified that the investigation involving sixteen officers is a routine internal disciplinary process, not connected to any alleged coup plot. An investigative panel has already been established, and its findings will be made public upon completion.
The DHQ appealed to Nigerians to remain calm and continue supporting the military and other security agencies in safeguarding national stability.
“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.
Reiterating its loyalty, the DHQ stressed: “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.”
What You Should Know
The Defence Headquarters is the central command authority of Nigeria’s Armed Forces, responsible for coordinating operations and policy across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the current Director of Defence Information, serves as the official spokesperson, ensuring public communication remains transparent and credible amid rising concerns about misinformation.
