Garba Mohammed
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has refuted claims circulating online that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an attempted military coup.
In a statement, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, described the report as “false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among Nigerians.” The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) clarified that the parade was canceled to enable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to attend a strategic bilateral meeting abroad and to allow members of the AFN to continue operations against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.
Addressing the ongoing investigation involving sixteen officers under scrutiny for professional misconduct, Brigadier General Gusau emphasized that the probe is a routine internal disciplinary measure. An investigative panel has been constituted, and its findings will be made public in due course.
The DHQ called on all citizens to continue supporting security agents and reassured the public that the Federal Government, legislature, and judiciary are working collaboratively for national safety, development, and the protection of democracy.
The statement concluded with a strong affirmation of loyalty, stating that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remains firmly committed to the Constitution and the Federal Government under President Tinubu.
Read the full statement below:
PRESS RELEASE
DHQ NEVER MENTIONED ANY COUP ATTEMPT
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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