The Defence Headquarters has dismissed reports linking the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary parade to an alleged plot by some officers to overthrow President Bola Tinubu.
The rebuttal followed a publication by Sahara Reporters, which claimed that about 16 military officers, ranging from the rank of Captain to Brigadier General, were arrested by the Defence Intelligence Agency for allegedly holding secret meetings to topple the government. The report also linked the alleged coup plot to the cancellation of the October 1 parade.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, described the report as “false, malicious, and intended to create unnecessary tension and distrust among Nigerians.”
He said, “The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to a false and misleading publication insinuating that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an alleged attempted military coup. The claims are entirely untrue and mischievous.”
Gusau explained that the decision to cancel the Independence Day parade was purely administrative, noting that it was meant to allow President Tinubu to attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country and to enable troops to sustain ongoing operations nationwide.
“The decision was taken to allow Mr President to attend a high-level bilateral meeting abroad and to ensure that members of the Armed Forces maintain momentum in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry,” he clarified.
Responding to questions about the detained officers, the DHQ said their arrest was part of a routine internal process and not connected to any coup attempt.
“The ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is an internal disciplinary matter aimed at maintaining professionalism and discipline within the ranks. An investigative panel has been constituted, and its findings will be made public in due course,” Gusau stated.
Reaffirming the loyalty of the Nigerian military to democratic governance, he urged citizens to disregard the rumours and continue to support the armed forces.
“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 Ahmed Tinubu. Democracy is forever,” he declared.
Gusau further appealed to Nigerians to remain united in the pursuit of peace and national development, emphasizing that the executive, legislature, and judiciary were working together to ensure national stability.
