The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed media reports alleging an attempted military coup in Nigeria, describing them as false, misleading, and aimed at inciting public tension.
The rebuttal was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau.
“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.
According to the DHQ, the report also made “spurious references” to its earlier announcement regarding the arrest of 16 officers currently under investigation for professional misconduct.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) wishes to categorically state that the claims by the said publication are entirely false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace,” Gusau stated.
He clarified that the decision to cancel the 65th Independence Anniversary parade was taken to enable President Bola Tinubu attend a strategic bilateral meeting abroad and to allow members of the Armed Forces sustain operational momentum in ongoing counterterrorism and anti-banditry efforts.
Gusau further explained that the ongoing investigation of the 16 officers was a routine internal procedure designed to uphold discipline and professionalism within the ranks.
“An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings will be made public in due course,” he added.
“The Federal Government, the legislature, and the judiciary are working closely to ensure the safety, development, and well-being of the nation,” the statement noted.
“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 Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR”.
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed the military’s loyalty to democracy, urging Nigerians to ignore false reports and warning against rumours that could undermine national stability.
About the Author
