Defence Headquarters Debunks Coup Rumour, Says Independence Event Was Cancelled for Strategic Reasons

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed as false and misleading reports circulating online that Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary celebrations were cancelled due to an alleged coup attempt.

In a statement titled “DHQ Never Mentioned Any Coup Attempt,” the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, said the claims were “malicious” and aimed at causing unnecessary panic and distrust among Nigerians.

“The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to a false and misleading report insinuating that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an alleged attempted military coup,” the statement read.

Gusau clarified that the cancellation had nothing to do with any security threat. Instead, it was a strategic decision made to allow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu attend an important bilateral meeting abroad and to enable the Armed Forces sustain momentum in the ongoing fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.

The DHQ also addressed references made in the report to the arrest of sixteen officers, confirming that the officers are currently under routine investigation for professional misconduct — not for involvement in any coup plot.

“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 constituted, and its findings will be made public,” Gusau added.

Reaffirming the military’s commitment to Nigeria’s democracy, the statement stressed that the Armed Forces remain loyal to the Constitution and the Commander-in-Chief.

“The DHQ urges members of the public to disregard the falsehood being circulated by the purveyors of misinformation and enemies of our nation,” the statement said.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

The DHQ also called on all Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies and the government’s efforts toward national unity, safety, and development.

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