DHQ Debunks Coup Rumours, Clarifies Reasons for Independence Anniversary Cancellation

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has strongly refuted a false report circulating online that attempted to link the cancellation of events marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary to an alleged military coup attempt.

In a press release signed by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Director Defence Information, the DHQ categorically dismissed the claims as “entirely false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust.” The DHQ clarified that the decision to cancel the 65th independence anniversary parade was made to allow the President to attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country and to enable members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to sustain their offensive against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.

Furthermore, the DHQ addressed the same publication’s spurious reference to the recent arrest of sixteen officers. It assured Nigerians that the investigation into these officers for professional misconduct is a routine internal process focused on maintaining discipline and professionalism. An investigative panel has been constituted, and its findings will be made public. The DHQ reaffirmed the AFN’s firm loyalty to the Constitution and the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and urged the public to disregard the circulating falsehoods, emphasizing, “Democracy is forever.”