The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed reports claiming that the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary activities was part of a plan to remove President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from power.
In a statement on Saturday, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, said the report was false and aimed at causing fear and confusion in the country.
He explained that the independence parade was cancelled because the President had to attend important meetings outside Nigeria, not because of any coup attempt.
“The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to a false online report suggesting that cancelling the Independence Day celebration was connected to an alleged coup plot,” Gusau said.
He added that the report also wrongly linked the cancellation to the arrest of sixteen military officers currently being investigated for professional misconduct.
According to him, the ongoing investigation of those officers is a normal internal process to maintain discipline and professionalism in the military. He said a panel has already been set up, and its findings will be made public when ready.
Gusau urged Nigerians to ignore the false story and continue to support the military and other security agencies in their efforts to keep the country safe.
He assured that the military remains loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“The Defence Headquarters wants all peace-loving Nigerians to continue supporting the security agencies. The government, legislature, and judiciary are working together for the peace and progress of the nation. Democracy has come to stay,” he said.
The statement ended by warning the public not to believe false reports from people spreading misinformation, saying the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to defending the country and upholding democratic rule.