The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed as false and misleading an online report claiming that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an alleged attempted military coup.
In a statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the DHQ said the report also made unfounded references to its recent announcement on the arrest of sixteen officers currently under investigation for professional misconduct.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), the statement noted, “categorically refutes the claims,” describing them as malicious fabrications intended to stir tension and distrust among Nigerians.
According to the DHQ, the decision to cancel the anniversary parade was taken to enable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu attend a strategic bilateral meeting abroad, while allowing the military to sustain ongoing operations against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.
The statement further clarified that the investigation of the sixteen officers is a routine internal process to uphold discipline and professionalism within the ranks, adding that an investigative panel has been constituted and its findings will be made public in due course.
The DHQ urged citizens to disregard the falsehood being circulated, emphasizing that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
Brigadier General Gusau also called on Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies, assuring that the government, legislature, and judiciary are working together for the peace, safety, and development of the nation.
