ABUJA: The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed as false and malicious an online report alleging that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an attempted coup.
The Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, in a statement on Saturday, said the report also made baseless references to the ongoing investigation of 16 army officers.
He said the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) never at any time mentioned or alluded to a coup attempt, describing the report as a deliberate attempt to incite fear and distrust among citizens.
Gusau explained that the Independence Anniversary parade was shelved to enable President Bola Tinubu attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country, and to allow troops sustain ongoing counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations nationwide.
He added that the investigation of the 16 officers was a routine internal process aimed at upholding discipline and professionalism within the ranks, assuring that the outcome would be made public in due course.
“The DHQ urges Nigerians to disregard the false publication and continue to support the security forces in their efforts to protect lives and maintain peace.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain firmly loyal to the constitution and the Federal Government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Tinubu,” he said.
