The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed as false and malicious an online report alleging that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an attempted coup.
The Director, Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, in a statement on Saturday said the report also made baseless references to the ongoing investigation of 16 army officers.
He said the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) never at any time mentioned or alluded to a coup attempt, adding that the story was a deliberate attempt to incite fear and distrust among citizens.
Gusau said the independence anniversary parade was shelved to enable President Bola Tinubu attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country.
He also said it was to allow troops sustain ongoing counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations nationwide.
According to Gusau, the investigation of the 16 officers was a routine internal process aimed at upholding discipline and professionalism within the ranks.
He gave an assurance that the outcome would be made public in due course.
“The DHQ urges Nigerians to disregard the false publication and continue to support the security forces in their efforts to protect lives and maintain peace.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains firmly loyal to the constitution and the Federal Government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Tinubu,” he said.
Read the full DHQ statement below.
PRESS RELEASE
DHQ NEVER MENTIONED ANY COUP ATTEMPT
1. 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.
2. 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. The decision regarding the cancellellation of 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.
3. 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.
4. The DHQ calls on all peace loving citizens to continue to provide necessary support to the security agents. The FG, the legislature and the judiciary are working closely for the safety, development and well being of the nation. Democracy is forever.
5. The DHQ urges members of the public to disregard the falsehood being circulated by the purveyors of misinformation and enemies of our 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.
Signed:
TUKUR GUSAU
Brigadier General
Director Defence Information, Abuja
18 October 2025