Defense Headquarters Rejects Coup Rumors – On Monday, February 26, the Nigerian Army vehemently refuted circulating rumors suggesting a potential coup against the administration of President Bola Tinubu, categorically labeling the speculations as “fake news.”
The origin of these unfounded claims can be traced to an online publication that asserted the presidential guards were placed on “high alert” due to suspected coup plotting within Nigeria.
According to the report, key brigades were supposedly under scrutiny, and Colonel Adebisi Onasanya, the Commander of the Presidential Guards Brigade, purportedly held meetings with President Tinubu and his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.
However, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Acting Director of Defence Information, issued a statement debunking these allegations. He clarified, “The Defence Headquarters wishes to categorically state that the allegation is totally false.”
Gusau highlighted that the Guards Brigade has a statutory responsibility to safeguard the seat of power, the Presidency, and the broader Federal Capital Territory, and being on high alert is a routine part of fulfilling this duty.
Gusau reminded the public of the unwavering commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, as reiterated by Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, to protect and uphold democracy in the country.
He emphasized that the assertion of a coup plot was baseless and urged the public to dismiss it as a mere product of imagination.
In response to the publication, the Defence Headquarters condemned the unfounded assertion, attributing it to the imagination of the publisher.
The statement also called upon relevant security agencies to take immediate action against Sahara Reporters, the source of the rumors, denouncing their actions as unpatriotic.
Expressing concern over the potential escalation of tension, the Defence Headquarters announced its intention to seek legal redress on the matter, underscoring the gravity of disseminating false information that could disrupt the stability of the nation.
As the situation unfolds, the Defense Headquarters is steadfast in dispelling the baseless coup rumors and upholding the commitment of the Armed Forces to democratic principles in Nigeria.
