The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has debunked a report by an online platform linking the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary to an alleged attempted military coup.
It described the publication as false, malicious and intended to create public tension.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) clarified that the decision to cancel the Independence Day parade was taken to enable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country.
The statement further explained that “the decision was aimed at sustaining the ongoing momentum in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.”
Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, dismissed the publication’s claim linking the cancellation of the parade to the investigation of 16 officers as baseless.
He clarified that the investigation of the officers was part of routine internal disciplinary measures designed to uphold professionalism and accountability within the military.
“The investigative panel has been duly constituted and its findings will be made public in due course,” the statement read.
The DHQ appealed to Nigerians to disregard the false report and continue supporting the military and other security agencies in their efforts to safeguard the nation.
It reiterated that the Armed Forces remain committed to the unity, stability, and progress of Nigeria, under the democratic leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.