The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has firmly debunked reports claiming that Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary celebrations were canceled due to an alleged coup attempt.
In a statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, and titled “DHQ Never Mentioned Any Coup Attempt,” the military described the claims as “false, malicious, and aimed at inciting unnecessary fear and distrust among Nigerians.”
According to the DHQ, an online news platform had published a report alleging that some military officers were arrested in connection with a foiled coup plot, suggesting that the supposed development led to the cancellation of the anniversary activities.
The Defence Headquarters, however, clarified that the report was entirely baseless. It explained that the decision to cancel the Independence Day parade was purely strategic, allowing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to attend a key bilateral meeting outside the country and enabling the Armed Forces to sustain their ongoing operations against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.
The statement further addressed the issue of sixteen officers currently under investigation, emphasizing that their case is a “routine internal process” meant to uphold discipline and professionalism within the military ranks — not related to any coup plot.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria wishes to categorically state that the claims by the said publication are false and intended to cause tension within the polity,” the DHQ reiterated.
It also reaffirmed the loyalty of the military to democratic governance, stressing that the Federal Government, legislature, and judiciary are united in promoting the nation’s safety, development, and wellbeing.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Democracy is forever,” the statement concluded.
