DHQ Debunks Coup Attempt Rumors, Reaffirms Loyalty to President Tinubu

Abuja—The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has firmly denied reports suggesting that the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary activities was linked to an alleged coup attempt, describing the claims as false, malicious, and aimed at causing unnecessary tension.

In a press release issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the military clarified that the decision to cancel the Independence Day parade was purely logistical and strategic, allowing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to attend a crucial bilateral meeting abroad while the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) continue operations against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.

According to the statement, the DHQ dismissed as baseless the reports linking the recent arrest of sixteen officers to any coup plot, emphasizing that the arrests were part of a routine internal investigation to maintain discipline and professionalism within the ranks.

“The claims by the said publication are entirely false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace,” the DHQ stated, urging Nigerians to disregard the misinformation.

The military reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s democracy and constitutional order, assuring citizens that the Armed Forces remain loyal to the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the Federal Government.

Brigadier General Gusau concluded by encouraging Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies as they work with the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial arms to ensure national safety and stability.

Newspot Nigeria reports that the Defence Headquarters’ firm rebuttal comes amid a wave of online disinformation, underscoring the military’s commitment to transparency and constitutional governance.

FULL STATEMENT

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 cancellation of the 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