The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed as false and malicious a viral online report linking the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary celebrations to an alleged coup attempt.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, described the report as baseless and intended to incite public fear and mistrust in the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
According to Gusau, the military had never at any point suggested or hinted at a coup, and the decision to cancel the Independence Day parade was purely strategic.
He explained that the cancellation was to enable President Bola Tinubu participate in a key international engagement, and to allow troops to remain focused on critical counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations across the country.
Gusau also addressed concerns raised in the report about the ongoing investigation of 16 army officers.
He clarified that the probe was part of standard internal procedures aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism within the military, and not connected to any political plot.
“The outcome of the investigation will be made public at the appropriate time,” he said.
Reassuring Nigerians, the DHQ urged the public to disregard the false publication and continue supporting the armed forces in their mission to maintain peace and protect national integrity.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains unwavering in its loyalty to the Constitution and to the Federal Government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Tinubu,” Gusau stated.
