16 Officers Under Probe For Misconduct, Not Coup Plot — DHQ Dismisses Rumour

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has debunked reports linking the ongoing investigation of sixteen military officers to an alleged coup plot, describing such claims as false, misleading, and intended to create fear and tension in the country.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Saturday, October 18, 2025, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, clarified that the officers currently under probe are being investigated strictly for professional misconduct, not for any subversive or political activity as speculated in a recent online publication.

He stressed that the internal inquiry is a routine disciplinary measure designed to ensure accountability and uphold professionalism within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).

According to him, an investigative panel has been constituted and its findings will be made public at the appropriate time.

Gusau noted that the false report, which also linked the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary activities to a supposed coup attempt, was a deliberate attempt to misinform the public. He explained that the parade was cancelled to allow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu attend a high-level bilateral meeting outside the country and to enable the military sustain pressure in ongoing counterterrorism operations nationwide.

He urged Nigerians to disregard the rumour and remain confident in the Armed Forces, emphasizing that the military remains steadfast in its constitutional role and loyal to the democratically elected government. “The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains loyal to the Constitution and to the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,” he stated.

The DHQ called on the public to shun fake news and support the military in its mission to safeguard national unity and stability, reaffirming that democracy in Nigeria remains secure and unthreatened.