The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has debunked media reports about a military coup attempt in Nigeria, saying they were false and misleading.

The DHQ refuted the report on Saturday in a statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau.
“The attention of the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has been drawn to a false and misleading report by an online publication insinuating that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary was linked to an alleged attempted military coup,” the statement read.
“The report also made spurious references to the recent DHQ press release announcing the arrest of sixteen officers currently under investigation for professional misconduct.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) wishes to categorically state that the claims by the said publication are entirely false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace.”

Gusau explained that the decision regarding the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary parade was to allow President Bola Tinubu attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country and for members of the AFN to sustain the momentum on the fight against terrorism, insurgency and banditry.

Furthermore, the DHQ has reassured Nigerians that the ongoing investigation involving the 16 officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring that discipline and professionalism are maintained within the ranks.

Gusau added that as such, an investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings would be made public.

The DHQ has, therefore, called on all peace loving citizens to continue to provide necessary support to the security agents.

It stated that the Federal Government (FG), the legislature and the judiciary are working closely for the safety, development and well being of the nation, to ensure that democracy is observed forever in the country.

The DHQ has further urged members of the public to disregard the falsehood being circulated by the purveyors of misinformation and enemies of the nation.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,” Gusau stated.