DHQ Debunks Alleged Coup Plot, Says Parade Cancellation Was Administrative

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed as mischievous and unfounded a report linking the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary to an alleged coup plot.

An online platform had claimed that 16 military officers, from the rank of Captain to Brigadier-General, were arrested by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) over a supposed plot to topple the government, allegedly prompting the cancellation of the national parade.

But in a statement on Friday, the Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, described the publication as “false, malicious and calculated to cause panic and distrust among citizens.”

He explained that the decision to shelve the parade was informed by administrative considerations — including the President’s scheduled bilateral engagement abroad — and the need for troops to maintain operational momentum against insurgents and armed bandits nationwide.

“The claims are entirely false and intended to cause unnecessary tension. The cancellation was to allow Mr President to attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country and for the Armed Forces to sustain pressure on terrorists, insurgents and bandits,” the statement said.

On the alleged arrests, the DHQ confirmed that 16 officers were undergoing internal investigation, but insisted it was strictly a disciplinary matter and had no connection to any coup attempt.

“An investigative panel has been constituted. Its work is routine and aimed at preserving discipline and professionalism. Its findings will be made public,” Gusau assured.

He reaffirmed the loyalty of the Armed Forces to the Constitution and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Commander-in-Chief.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government. Democracy is forever,” he added, urging Nigerians to ignore rumours designed to create fear and instability.

The DHQ statement comes amid public anxiety over recent arrests within the military and speculations about political stability. The military restated that it remains focused on safeguarding democracy while prosecuting the war against insecurity.