DHQ Debunks Coup Rumour, Says Independence Parade Cancellation Not Linked to Any Military Plot

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The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has strongly refuted media claims linking the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary to an alleged attempted military coup.

In a statement issued on Saturday, October 18, 2025, by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the DHQ described the report circulating online as “false, malicious, and deliberately misleading.”

According to the statement, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) clarified that the cancellation of the anniversary parade was purely due to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s official engagement in a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country, as well as the need for military personnel to sustain momentum in ongoing operations against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.

“The claims by the said publication are entirely false and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace,” the DHQ stated.

Addressing reports about the arrest of 16 officers, the DHQ explained that the officers were under routine investigation for professional misconduct, emphasising that the probe was part of the military’s internal disciplinary process and not connected to any coup attempt.

“An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings will be made public,” the statement added.

The DHQ further reassured Nigerians of the unwavering loyalty of the Armed Forces to the Constitution and the democratically elected government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government. Democracy is forever,” Brigadier General Gusau reaffirmed.

The DHQ also appealed to the public to disregard the false publication and continue supporting the nation’s security agencies as they work tirelessly to maintain peace and stability across the country.