DHQ Debunks Coup Scare, Condemns False Reports
…as CDS restates Military’s commitment to defending democracy
By Lawrence Audu
Following a recent article published by Saharareporters.com, The Defence Headquarters has strongly rejected claims of a coup plot in Nigeria, dismissing the allegations as groundless and lacking in evidence.
Released on the 25th of February, 2024, the article suggested that the Guards Brigade had been placed on high alert due to suspicious activities, leading to speculation of a potential coup. The report also implied that an emergency meeting involving President Bola Tinubu, the Chief of Staff to the President, and the Commander of the Guards Brigade had been convened in response to the alleged threat.
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In a statement, the Defence Headquarters through it’s spokesman, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau categorically denied the claims, emphasising that the Guards Brigade’s primary responsibility is to safeguard the seat of power, including the Presidency and the Federal Capital Territory. The statement clarified that the Brigade has consistently maintained a heightened state of alert as part of its Standard Operating Procedures to carry out its designated duties effectively.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa OFR, has previously underscored the steadfast commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to upholding and protecting democracy in the country. The Defence Headquarters reiterated this commitment while denouncing the false accusations of a coup plot as mere inventions without any factual basis.
The Defence Headquarters strongly condemned the spread of such unsubstantiated information, attributing the claims to the imagination of the article’s publisher. The public was urged to disregard the rumours and treat them as misinformation intended to cause undue panic and uncertainty.
The Defence Headquarters’ prompt response aimed to reassure the British populace of the nation’s stability and the military’s dedication to upholding democratic principles. The rebuttal of the coup plot rumours serves to dispel any apprehensions and maintain public confidence in the Armed Forces’ mandate to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and democratic institutions.
It further called on relevant security agencies to immediately take appropriate action against Sahara Reporters, while seeking legal redress on the issue which has ulterior motives of creating unnecessary tension in the country.
