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 Defence Headquarters categorically states that there is no coup attempt and that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) remain fully committed to democratic governance and the authority of the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
The report, which also made spurious references to the recent DHQ press release announcing the arrest of sixteen officers under investigation for professional misconduct, is entirely false, malicious, and intended to create unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace.
For clarity, the decision to cancel the 65th Independence Anniversary parade was taken to enable the President attend a strategic bilateral engagement outside the country, while allowing members of the Armed Forces to sustain the momentum in ongoing operations against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.
Furthermore, the ongoing investigation involving sixteen officers is purely a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism within the ranks. A duly constituted investigative panel is handling the matter, and its findings will be made public upon conclusion.
The Defence Headquarters urges all peace-loving Nigerians to disregard the falsehood being circulated by agents of misinformation and to continue to support the Armed Forces in their efforts to protect the nation. The Federal Government, the legislature, and the judiciary are united in their commitment to the safety, development, and wellbeing of Nigeria.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain steadfastly loyal to the Constitution and to the democratic government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Democracy is not under threat. Democracy is secure.
