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The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has firmly dismissed reports alleging that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was connected to an attempted military coup, describing the publication as false, malicious, and intended to sow panic among citizens.

In a statement signed by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, and released in Abuja on Saturday, October 18, the DHQ clarified that the online report, which also linked the recent arrest of sixteen military officers to a supposed coup attempt, was a complete fabrication with no basis in fact.

According to the DHQ, “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 report also made spurious references to the recent DHQ press release announcing the arrest of sixteen officers currently under investigation for professional misconduct.”

The statement explained that the decision to cancel the Independence Day parade was purely strategic and administrative, noting that it was informed by the need to allow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu attend a high-level bilateral meeting outside the country and to enable the Armed Forces sustain ongoing operations against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry across Nigeria.

“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 AFN to sustain the momentum on the fight against terrorism, insurgency and banditry,” the statement clarified.

Addressing the issue of the detained officers, the DHQ emphasized that their arrest was part of a normal internal disciplinary process, not connected in any way to political or unconstitutional activities.

“Furthermore, the DHQ wishes to reassure Nigerians that the ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism is maintained within the ranks. An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings would be made public,” the military high command stated.

Brigadier General Gusau called on Nigerians to disregard what he termed “the falsehood being circulated by purveyors of misinformation and enemies of our nation,” and urged citizens to continue supporting the armed forces and other security agencies in their national duties.

“The DHQ calls on all peace-loving citizens to continue to provide necessary support to the security agents. 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 read.

Reaffirming the loyalty of the Armed Forces to the Constitution and the government of the day, the Defence Headquarters stressed that the military remains a pillar of national stability and will continue to uphold democratic governance under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

“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,” it concluded.

The DHQ’s rebuttal follows growing public speculation and online narratives alleging a brewing plot within the military ranks—a claim now unequivocally dismissed by Nigeria’s defence authorities as unfounded and dangerously misleading.

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