Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director Defence Information

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reacted to what it waved off as 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.

According to a statement signed by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director Defence Information, Abuja, the report also made spurious references to the recent DHQ press release announcing the arrest of 16 officers currently under investigation for professional misconduct.

DHQ added that 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 decision regarding the cancellellation of 65th independence anniversary parade was to allow Mr President attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country and for members of the AFN to sustain the momentum on the fight against terrorism, insurgency and banditry.

"Furthermore, the DHQ wishes to reassure Nigerians that the ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism is 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. The FG, the legislature and the judiciary are working closely for the safety, development and well being of the nation. Democracy is forever.

"The DHQ urges members of the public to disregard the falsehood being circulated by the purveyors of misinformation and enemies of our nation. The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains 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, GCFR."