DHQ denies coup allegation, clarifies Independence Day parade cancellation
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed as false and malicious a report claiming that the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary parade was linked to an alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
In a statement issued on Saturday, by Tukur Gusau, director of Defence Information, the DHQ described the publication as “misleading and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace.”
According to the statement, the decision to cancel the October 1 parade had nothing to do with any alleged coup attempt but was taken to allow President Tinubu attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country.
The DHQ added that the move also enabled members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to sustain momentum in ongoing military operations against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.
“The attention of the Defence Headquarters 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 claims by the said publication are entirely false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension,” Gusau stated.
The DHQ further clarified that the arrest and ongoing investigation of sixteen officers recently reported in the media was a purely internal process aimed at upholding discipline and professionalism within the ranks, not a politically motivated action.
It explained that a duly constituted investigative panel is currently reviewing the conduct of the affected personnel, and its findings will be made public once the process is concluded.
“The ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism is maintained within the ranks,” the statement said.
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The Defence Headquarters urged Nigerians to disregard what it called the “falsehood being circulated by purveyors of misinformation and enemies of the nation,” while reiterating the unwavering loyalty of the Armed Forces to the Constitution and the democratic government of President Bola Tinubu.
The DHQ also appealed to all peace-loving citizens to continue supporting security agencies in their efforts to safeguard the country, stressing that the federal government, legislature, and judiciary are working together for Nigeria’s safety, development, and stability.
“Democracy is forever,” the statement concluded.
