By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has debunked reports alleging that Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary activities were cancelled due to an attempted military coup, describing the claims as false, misleading, and deliberately designed to cause public panic.
In a statement titled “DHQ Never Mentioned Any Coup Attempt,” the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, urged Nigerians to disregard what he called “malicious misinformation” spread by enemies of the state.
“The attention of the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has been drawn to a false and misleading report by an online publication insinuating that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an alleged attempted military coup,” the statement read.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) wishes to categorically state that the claims by the said publication are entirely false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace.”
Explaining the true reason behind the cancellation, Gusau said the decision was taken to allow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country, while the military maintains its focus on ongoing operations against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.
He also clarified that the recent arrest of sixteen officers mentioned in some reports had no connection with any alleged coup attempt, noting that it was “a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism within the ranks.”
According to the DHQ, an investigative panel has been set up to review the matter, and its findings will be made public when concluded.
Reassuring citizens, the statement reaffirmed the loyalty of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to the Constitution and the democratically elected government.
“The Federal Government, the legislature, and the judiciary are working closely for the safety, development, and well-being of the nation. Democracy is forever,” Gusau stated.
The DHQ therefore called on Nigerians to ignore the “falsehoods” being circulated and to continue supporting the military and other security agencies in their ongoing efforts to safeguard the country.
