By Nkechi Eze
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has debunked a report circulating online suggesting that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an alleged attempted military coup, describing the publication as false, malicious, and deliberately misleading.
According to an official statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the DHQ expressed concern over what it termed a “false and misleading report” by an online platform that sought to create fear and distrust among Nigerians. The publication had also made reference to a recent DHQ statement announcing the arrest of sixteen officers currently under investigation for professional misconduct.
Brigadier General Gusau clarified that the claims in the said report were completely unfounded and mischievous. He explained that the decision to cancel the Independence Anniversary parade was taken purely for administrative and strategic reasons, and not for any political or security concerns as insinuated. “The decision regarding the cancellation of the 65th Independence Anniversary Parade was to allow Mr. President attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country and for members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to sustain the momentum in the ongoing fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry,” he stated.
The Defence Headquarters further reassured Nigerians that the investigation involving the sixteen officers is a normal internal process aimed at maintaining discipline and professionalism within the Armed Forces. Brigadier General Gusau confirmed that an investigative panel has already been constituted and that its findings will be made public upon conclusion.
Reiterating the military’s loyalty to democratic governance, the statement urged Nigerians to disregard the falsehood being circulated by what it described as “purveyors of misinformation and enemies of the nation.” It emphasised that 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.”
The Defence Headquarters also called on peace-loving Nigerians to continue supporting the military and other security agencies in their efforts to ensure national security and stability. “The Federal Government, the legislature, and the judiciary are working closely for the safety, development, and well-being of the nation. Democracy is forever,” the statement concluded.
With this clarification, the Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, professionalism, and the protection of Nigeria’s democracy, urging the media to verify sensitive information before publication in the national interest.
