By Jane Okafor, Abuja
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) on Saturday evening reaffirmed its loyalty to the Constitution and Federal Government of Nigeria.
The DHQ also refuted reports that the nation’s 65th independence anniversary activities were shelved over an attempted coup plot to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
It urged the public to disregard the falsehood and misinformation being circulated by the purveyors, saying enemies of the nation were behind it.
The Daily Crucible reports that some soldiers attempted a coup plot targeting the government of the day and its key officials, according to an online news medium.
No fewer than 16 military officers were said to have been arrested and undergoing interrogation over the alleged attempted coup plot believed could have been blood-cuddling if they had not been stopped.
However, a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, titled, ‘DHQ Never Mentioned Any Coup Attempt’ debunked any coup plot.
Below is the text of the statement
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
