The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has strongly denied claims that the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day celebrations was connected to an alleged coup attempt by some military officers.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, dismissed the allegations as false, malicious, and designed to incite fear and mistrust among citizens.
“The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to a false and misleading report by an online publication suggesting that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an attempted military coup,” the statement read in part.
Online news platform Sahara Reporters had earlier alleged that 16 military officers, from the rank of Captain to Brigadier General, were arrested by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) for allegedly plotting to overthrow the government.
It further suggested that the suspension of the October 1 parade was related to this supposed plot.
However, the DHQ firmly refuted the narrative, clarifying that the cancellation of the Independence Day activities was a strategic and administrative decision.
According to the military, the parade was shelved to allow President Bola Tinubu to attend an important bilateral engagement abroad and to enable military personnel to focus on ongoing security operations across the country.
“The decision regarding the cancellation… 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,” Gusau explained.
While confirming that 16 officers are currently under investigation, the DHQ clarified that the matter is not political or related to a coup, but rather a routine disciplinary issue being handled internally.
“The ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism are maintained within the ranks. An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings will be made public,” the statement noted.
Reiterating its unwavering commitment to democratic governance, the DHQ assured Nigerians that the military remains fully loyal to the 1999 Constitution and the civilian government under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government… Democracy is forever,” said Gusau.
He called on the public to disregard the coup rumours, support the Armed Forces, and continue working towards national peace and stability.
“The executive, legislature, and judiciary are aligned in their commitment to Nigeria’s development and security. Citizens should unite in preserving peace and strengthening democracy,” he added.
