The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has debunked claims by an online publication alleging that the cancellation of activities for Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an attempted military coup.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the military described the report as false, malicious, and deliberately crafted to create fear and distrust among Nigerians.
According to General Gusau, the referenced publication also misinterpreted a previous DHQ statement concerning the arrest of 16 officers currently under investigation for professional misconduct. He clarified that the investigation was a routine internal process aimed at maintaining discipline and professionalism within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
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“The decision to cancel the 65th Independence Anniversary parade,” he explained, “was made to enable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu attend a strategic bilateral meeting abroad, and to allow military formations sustain focus on ongoing counterterrorism, anti-insurgency, and anti-banditry operations.”
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its loyalty to the Constitution and to President Tinubu, emphasizing that the Armed Forces remain committed to protecting democracy and national unity.
“The public is advised to disregard the baseless claims spread by mischief makers,” the statement read. “The AFN remains steadfast in its constitutional duty to defend the nation and support the democratic institutions of government.”