Defence Headquarters Speaks On Arrest of 16 Army Officers Over Coup Plot Against Tinubu

Defence Headquarters has denied alleged arrest of 16 Army Officers over coup plot against Tinubu.

NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed reports claiming that 16 Nigerian Army officers were arrested for allegedly plotting to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The rebuttal followed a viral publication alleging that the supposed arrests were linked to a failed coup and the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

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In a statement issued on Sunday by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, the DHQ described the report as “false, malicious, and misleading.”

“The attention of the Defence Headquarters 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,” the statement read.

“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.”

General Gusau clarified that the cancellation of the Independence Day parade had nothing to do with any alleged coup, noting that it was done to enable the President to attend a strategic bilateral meeting abroad and to allow security forces to sustain the ongoing fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.

The DHQ explained that the investigation involving 16 officers mentioned in the viral report was a routine internal disciplinary process, not connected to any political or unconstitutional activity.

“An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings will be made public. The DHQ calls on all peace-loving citizens to continue to provide necessary support to the security agencies,” the statement added.

Reaffirming the military’s loyalty to the Constitution and the Tinubu administration, the Defence Headquarters emphasized that Nigeria’s democracy remains intact and that the Armed Forces will continue to uphold professionalism and discipline in carrying out their duties.

“The Federal Government, the legislature, and the judiciary are working closely for the safety, development, and well-being of the nation. Democracy is forever,” the statement concluded.

The DHQ also urged Nigerians to disregard falsehoods and propaganda spread by “enemies of the nation,” assuring that the Armed Forces remain committed to national stability, peace, and unity.