DHQ Denies Coup Attempt Rumour, Reaffirms Loyalty to Tinubu’s Government

By Chinedu Echianu

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed as false and misleading an online report alleging that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an attempted military coup.

In a statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the DHQ described the publication as “malicious” and aimed at creating unnecessary tension and distrust among Nigerians.

According to the statement which was shared by Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga on his Facebook Page, the decision to cancel the Independence Day parade was taken to enable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country, while allowing the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to sustain momentum in ongoing operations against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.

Brigadier General Gusau clarified that the arrest and investigation of sixteen officers recently announced by the military had no connection with any alleged coup plot, explaining that the process was a routine internal measure to uphold discipline and professionalism within the ranks. He noted that an investigative panel had already been constituted and its findings would be made public.

The DHQ urged Nigerians to disregard the rumours and continue to support the Armed Forces and other security agencies in their efforts to ensure national security and stability.

Reaffirming the military’s commitment to democratic governance, the statement added that the Armed Forces “remain 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.”

“Democracy is forever,” the statement concluded.