The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has strongly dismissed a viral online report alleging that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an attempted coup, describing the story as false, malicious, and deliberately misleading.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, said the publication was a fabrication aimed at inciting fear and sowing distrust between citizens and the military.
“At no time did the Armed Forces of Nigeria mention or allude to any coup attempt,” Gusau said. “This report is an intentional attempt to mislead the public and destabilise the peace and trust we’ve built with Nigerians.”
He explained that the Independence Day parade was not cancelled for security reasons, but rather to allow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country, while troops remained engaged in ongoing counterterrorism and anti-banditry operations nationwide.
Routine Investigation Misrepresented
The Defence spokesperson also addressed claims linking the alleged coup to an investigation involving 16 Army officers, clarifying that the probe was a routine internal disciplinary review consistent with the armed forces’ standard procedures.
“The investigation of the 16 officers is an internal administrative process to ensure discipline and professionalism,” Gusau said. “The outcome will be made public once concluded.”
He reiterated that such internal exercises are common in maintaining military order and integrity, not evidence of any political intrigue or disloyalty.
Public Urged to Ignore False Claims
Gusau called on Nigerians to disregard the fake publication and continue to support the armed forces in their commitment to national security, peace, and unity.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Tinubu,” he said.
Security analysts have noted that online misinformation targeting the military often seeks to exploit political transitions or national events to create public anxiety. The DHQ’s swift rebuttal underscores its sensitivity to information warfare and the government’s determination to preserve civil-military harmony.
