The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed a report
claiming that the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary
events was linked to an alleged military coup attempt.
The federal government had cancelled the parade to celebrate
the country’s 65th independence anniversary on October 1.
In a statement, Tukur Gusau, director of
defence information, said the decision to cancel the anniversary parade was
taken to enable President Bola Tinubu to attend a strategic bilateral meeting
outside the country and to allow members of the armed forces to sustain
operations against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry across the country.
The DHQ also clarified that the arrest of sixteen officers
mentioned in the report was unrelated to any alleged coup plot.
He explained that the officers were undergoing an internal
investigation over professional misconduct, adding that it was part of routine
disciplinary measures to maintain discipline within the military.
“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
statement reads.
“The decision regarding the cancellation of the 65th
independence anniversary parade was to allow Mr President to 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.
“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 are maintained within
the ranks.”
Gusau said an investigative panel has been constituted and
its findings would be made public.
“The DHQ calls on all peace-loving citizens to continue to
provide necessary support to the security agents,” he said.
Gusau said the federal government, legislature, and
judiciary are working closely to ensure the nation’s safety, development, and
well-being.
“Democracy is forever,” he said.
He asked Nigerians to “disregard the falsehood being
circulated by the purveyors of misinformation and enemies of our nation”.
Gusau said the armed forces “remain firmly loyal” to the
constitution and the federal government under President Bola Tinubu.
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