The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has strongly rejected recent online claims that tied the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day ceremonies to an alleged military coup attempt. According to a press release, the DHQ says the story is false, malicious, and aimed at stirring public fear and mistrust.
The DHQ clarified that the decision to cancel the Independence Day parade was made to enable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to attend critical bilateral meetings abroad, as well as to maintain focus on the military’s counterinsurgency and security operations. The headquarters insisted that no reference was ever made to a coup in any official communication.
Regarding the 16 officers currently under investigation, the DHQ emphasized that this is part of the military’s routine disciplinary procedures. A formal investigative panel has been established, and its outcome will be publicly disclosed upon conclusion. In addressing citizens, the DHQ appealed for calm and public support for security agencies, reaffirming the armed forces’ allegiance to the Constitution and the federal government under President Tinubu.
Signed by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, the statement was issued on October 18, 2025, in Abuja.
