THE Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has strongly dismissed media reports suggesting that the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary parade was linked to an alleged coup plot against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
In a late-night statement issued on Saturday by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defence Information sent to News Point Nigeria, the DHQ described the report as “false, mischievous, and deliberately designed to create panic and sow distrust between the Nigerian Armed Forces and the general public.”
According to the military high command, the decision to suspend the 2025 Independence Day parade was taken purely for logistical and strategic reasons, chief among them, the President’s scheduled participation in a high-level international engagement.
“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,” the statement read.
The DHQ clarified that President Tinubu’s unavoidable official assignment outside the country coincided with the Independence Day period, necessitating the suspension of the parade.
It added that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) are currently focused on sustaining military momentum across various operational theatres including the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry and thus found it prudent to dedicate full attention to ongoing national security efforts.
“The decision had nothing to do with any alleged coup attempt,” the Defence Headquarters noted, adding that “our priority remains the protection of Nigeria’s territorial integrity and internal stability.”
Addressing media reports of alleged arrests of sixteen officers within the military, the DHQ explained that the internal process being undertaken is a routine disciplinary measure, not a politically motivated action.
It revealed that a properly constituted panel is reviewing the conduct of the affected officers and will submit its findings upon conclusion of the investigation.
“The ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism are maintained within the ranks,” Brigadier General Gusau stated.
The DHQ reiterated the unwavering loyalty of the Nigerian Armed Forces to the Constitution, the Commander-in-Chief, and the democratic government of President Bola Tinubu.
It also urged Nigerians to disregard “falsehoods being circulated by enemies of the nation” and continue supporting the military and other security agencies in safeguarding the country.
“The Armed Forces remain apolitical, professional, and firmly committed to Nigeria’s democracy. The Nigerian military has no role other than the defence of the nation and protection of its people. Democracy is forever,” the statement concluded.
The Defence Headquarters further reassured citizens that the federal government, legislature, and judiciary remain united in their shared commitment to national security, peace, and development.