The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed as false and malicious reports suggesting that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was connected to an alleged coup plot involving some military officers.

An online platform, Sahara Reporters, had claimed that 16 detained officers,  from the ranks of Captain to Brigadier General,  were arrested by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) for allegedly holding secret meetings to overthrow the government. The report further alleged that the Independence Day parade, earlier scheduled for October 1, was cancelled due to the purported plot.

However, in a statement issued on Saturday by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the DHQ described the publication as “false, malicious, and intended to create unnecessary tension and distrust among Nigerians.”

 “The attention of the Defence Headquarters 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 claims by the said publication are entirely false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace,” the statement read in part.

Gusau explained that the decision to cancel the Independence Day parade was purely administrative and taken to allow President Bola Tinubu to attend a strategic bilateral meeting abroad, while troops continue with ongoing military operations across the country.

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

On the arrest of the 16 officers, the military spokesperson clarified that the issue was purely disciplinary and was being addressed through an internal process.

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

Reaffirming the loyalty of the Armed Forces to the Nigerian Constitution and democratic governance, Gusau urged citizens to disregard the rumours and continue to support the nation’s security agencies.

 “The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Tinubu. Democracy is forever,” he declared.

He further called on Nigerians to unite in promoting peace, stability, and national development, noting that the executive, legislature, and judiciary are working collectively to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens.