The Federal Government of Nigeria (FG) has publicly backed the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) after reports of an alleged coup attempt circulated widely.
The rumour initially published by an online outlet and linking the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day parade to a supposed coup plot and the detention of 16 military officers was dismissed by the military as “false” and “intended to cause unnecessary tension”.
In response, Information Minister Mohammed Idris reaffirmed the government’s trust in the military, saying there is “no reason to doubt” its statement, and that the FG will continue to support efforts to protect the nation’s security.
Opposition parties and civic groups, however, demanded transparency about the nature of the investigation involving the 16 officers, warning that mere denial is not sufficient.
Meanwhile, the pan-Yoruba socio-political group Afenifere reiterated its strong commitment to democracy and condemned any attempt to change government by force pointing out Nigeria’s past era of military rule as a warning.
