By Barth Ikiebe in Abuja.
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has described the speculation of coup attempt in the country as false and misleading.
Our correspondent reports that the report of the coup plot emanated from an online publication insinuating that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an alleged attempted military coup.
The DHQ said that the report is nothing but speculation of the said online publication.
The report also made references to the recent DHQ press release announcing the arrest of sixteen officers currently under investigation for professional misconduct.
However,the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja,stated 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 cancellation 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”.
General Tukur Gusau Further reassured Nigerians that the ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism being maintained within the ranks.
DHQ added that an investigative panel has been duly constituted, pointing out that its findings would be made public.
The DHQ called on all peace loving citizens to continue to provide necessary support to the security agents.
According to the general, “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”, the DHQ said.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
