The Defence Headquarters has debunked rumours that it has arrested 16 Nigerian army officers over an alleged planned coup to overthrow President Bola Tinubu.
An online publication had alleged that 16 army officers were arrested for plotting to overthrow Tinubu.
“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,” Brigadier General, Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, said in a statement on Saturday.
“The report also made spurious references to the recent DHQ press release announcing the arrest of sixteen officers currently under investigation for professional misconduct.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria, AFN, wishes to categorically state that the claims by the said publication are entirely false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace.”
The statement said the decision regarding the cancellation of the 65th Independence Anniversary parade was to allow the President to attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country and to enable members of the AFN sustain the momentum in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.
The DHQ added that the ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring that discipline and professionalism are maintained within the ranks.
“An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings would be made public.
“The DHQ calls on all peace-loving citizens to continue to provide necessary support to the security agents,” it said.
It further noted that the Federal Government, the legislature, and the judiciary are working closely for the safety, development, and well-being of the nation, affirming that democracy is forever.
The DHQ urged members of the public to disregard the falsehood being circulated by purveyors of misinformation and enemies of the nation, stressing that 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 Ahmed Tinubu.
