Nigeria: Defence Headquarters refutes coup allegations

Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has debunked reports claiming that the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary activities was linked to an alleged coup attempt within the military.

In a statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the military said the publication in question misrepresented facts and was deliberately crafted to stir public anxiety and distrust in the Armed Forces.

“The claims are entirely false, malicious, and designed to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among citizens,” the DHQ said.

The false report alleged that sixteen military officers from various commands — with ranks ranging from Captain to Brigadier General — were arrested by the Defence Intelligence Agency for purportedly holding secret meetings to overthrow the government.

Brigadier General Gusau dismissed the claims outright, clarifying that the suspension of the Independence Anniversary parade had nothing to do with any internal security threat. According to him, the decision was taken to enable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to attend an important bilateral engagement abroad, and to allow the Armed Forces to sustain operations across conflict-prone regions.

“The parade was not cancelled for any security-related reason. The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to protecting the nation and upholding democratic governance,” the statement stressed.

The DHQ explained that the matter involving the sixteen officers was a routine administrative procedure aimed at promoting discipline and professionalism, and not tied to any coup plot. It added that a special panel was reviewing the situation and that its findings would be made public once completed.

“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 DHQ reaffirmed.

The military called on the public to disregard what it described as a smear campaign by “purveyors of misinformation and enemies of the state,” urging Nigerians to continue showing confidence in the Armed Forces and other security agencies.

“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,” the statement concluded.