The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has strongly denied reports linking the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary to an alleged military coup attempt.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, the DHQ described the report by an online platform as false, misleading, and deliberately crafted to cause panic and distrust among Nigerians.
The statement, signed by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, said the publication falsely connected the cancellation to the arrest of sixteen military officers currently under investigation.
According to the DHQ, there was no coup plot or attempt, and the decision to suspend the Independence Anniversary parade had no connection whatsoever with any internal military investigation.
Brigadier General Gusau clarified that the cancellation was to enable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country during the period.
He added that the decision was also aimed at allowing troops to maintain the momentum in ongoing operations against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry across different parts of the country.
The DHQ stated that the ongoing investigation involving sixteen officers is a routine internal measure designed to uphold discipline, professionalism, and accountability within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
An investigative panel, the statement added, has already been constituted to handle the matter in accordance with military procedures.
Brigadier General Gusau assured that the outcome of the investigation would be made public once concluded, in line with the military’s commitment to transparency.
The DHQ warned against spreading unverified information, stressing that false reports could undermine national security and the morale of personnel defending the country.
It described the publication as the handiwork of elements who seek to destabilize the country and discredit the military’s loyalty to democratic governance.
Reiterating its commitment to constitutional order, the DHQ affirmed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully loyal to the Federal Government and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
The military authority also called on Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies as they work to safeguard lives, property, and national integrity.
Brigadier General Gusau concluded the statement by emphasizing that democracy in Nigeria remains firm and irreversible, declaring: “Democracy is forever.”
