Abuja, Nigeria — The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has firmly dismissed as false and malicious a report by an online publication alleging that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an attempted military coup.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the DHQ described the claims as “deliberate misinformation aimed at sowing tension and distrust among Nigerians.”
According to the statement, the DHQ’s attention was drawn to the misleading report, which not only linked the Independence Day cancellation to an alleged coup attempt but also made unfounded references to the recent announcement concerning the arrest of sixteen officers currently under investigation for professional misconduct.
“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,” the statement read.
Clarifying the reason behind the cancellation, the DHQ explained that the decision was taken to allow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country, while members of the Armed Forces sustain the momentum in the ongoing fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.
Brigadier General Gusau further noted that the ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at upholding discipline and professionalism within the military. An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings, he said, would be made public upon conclusion.
The DHQ also called on Nigerians to continue to support the Armed Forces and other security agencies in their collective efforts to safeguard the nation.
“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 statement added.
The DHQ urged members of the public to disregard the falsehood being circulated by what it termed “purveyors of misinformation and enemies of our nation.”
Reaffirming its unwavering commitment, the statement concluded:
“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.”
