No Coup Attempt — Defence Headquarters Debunks Online Rumour, Reaffirms Loyalty to Democracy

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has firmly denied reports suggesting that the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary parade was linked to an alleged military coup attempt, describing the claims as “false, malicious, and misleading.”

In a press release signed by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, the military distanced itself from what it called a “spurious” online publication that connected the cancellation of Independence Day activities to internal unrest within the Armed Forces.

Routine Investigation Misrepresented

The publication in question reportedly cited the recent arrest of sixteen military officers — a matter which the DHQ confirmed, but clarified as a standard internal disciplinary procedure.

According to the DHQ, “the ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism is maintained within the ranks. An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings will be made public.”

Independence Day Parade Cancellation Explained

The DHQ reiterated that the cancellation of the Independence Day parade was purely strategic and had nothing to do with any instability or internal crisis. The statement emphasized that:

“The decision regarding the cancellation of the 65th Independence Anniversary parade was to allow Mr President attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country and for members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to sustain the momentum in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.”

Reassurance of Loyalty and Stability

The military authority reassured Nigerians that the Armed Forces remains committed to upholding constitutional order and democracy.

“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 read.

Brigadier General Gusau urged the public to disregard the “falsehood being circulated by the purveyors of misinformation and enemies of our nation,” and called on all Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies as they work to ensure peace and national stability.

“Democracy is Forever” — DHQ

Concluding the release, the DHQ emphasized that the collaboration among the executive, legislative, and judicial arms of government remains strong, noting that the country’s democratic journey is intact.

“Democracy is forever,” the statement declared.