Military denies alleged coup plot, gives reason for Independence Day parade cancellation.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed reports linking the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary activities to an alleged coup attempt by some military officers.

The claims, made by a popular Nigerian media outlet, alleged that 16 detained officers were arrested for plotting to topple the government.

However, in a statement on Saturday, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, described the reports as “false, malicious, and intended to create tension and distrust among Nigerians.”

He wrote, “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 and distrust among the populace.”

The DHQ attributed the cancellation of the Independence Day parade to administrative reasons, citing President Bola Tinubu’s attendance at a strategic bilateral meeting abroad and the need for troops to sustain ongoing military operations.

“The decision regarding the cancellation of the 65th Independence Anniversary parade was to allow Mr President to attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country and for members of the Armed Forces to sustain the momentum in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry,” Gusau stated.

Regarding the detention of the 16 officers, the DHQ clarified that the matter is a disciplinary issue being handled through an internal investigative process.

“The ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism are maintained within the ranks. An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings will be made public,” the statement added.

The military reaffirmed its loyalty to the Constitution and democratic governance, urging Nigerians to disregard the rumors.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Tinubu. Democracy is forever,” Gusau stated.

He further called on citizens to unite in the pursuit of peace and national stability, noting that the executive, legislature, and judiciary are working together to ensure the safety, development, and well-being of all Nigerians.