The military has reaffirmed loyalty to the democratically elected civilian government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
It renewed its pledge against the backdrop of an alleged plot of a coup d’etat to overthrow the government of President Bola Tinubu.
The alleged unconstitutional plot by some military officers to forcefully seize power again had ignited outrage and utter condemnation by the generality of Nigerians, who had recalled their woeful experiences under the successive military juntas that had ruled Nigeria for many years since 1966 until 1999.
However, the military has dismissed the claims of an alleged coup plot by some of its officers, describing them as false and politically motivated.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, reportedly told Sunday Punch that: “There is no coup-related detention or plan within the Armed Forces.
“We didn’t issue any new statement beyond the earlier clarification that some officers were arrested for breaching military regulations.”
According to the paper, in the October 4 statement referenced, Gusau explained that the 16 detained officers were being investigated for indiscipline linked to “grievances over career stagnation and repeated promotion failures.”
However, Sahara Reporters alleged that the officers, ranging from Captain to Brigadier General, were being held by the Defence Intelligence Agency for plotting a coup. A security source claimed the arrests—more than 16 in number—were connected to an alleged plan to strike on October 1, leading to the cancellation of the Independence Day parade.
Lawyers, Civil Society Reject Military Intervention
Senior lawyers and civil society leaders condemned any suggestion of a military takeover, warning that it would endanger Nigeria’s democracy.
Human rights lawyer Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN) said no hardship or political dissatisfaction justified truncating democracy.
“The worst civilian government is still preferable to the best dictatorship,” he said. “We say no to all forms of military regime and no to all forms of dictatorship—whether by civilians or those in uniform.”
Kunle Adegoke (SAN) called any talk of a coup “unwarranted, unnecessary and condemnable,” while Yusuf Ali (SAN) said military intervention would be “catastrophic,” warning that Nigeria was still suffering the effects of past regimes.
Isiaka Olagunju (SAN) added that Nigerians who experienced military rule would never wish for its return, urging the government to “protect democracy and strengthen its institutions.”
Retired Generals Dismiss Allegations as Political
Retired senior officers also rejected the coup rumours, describing them as politically driven.
Brigadier General Bashir Adewinbi (retd.) said the story was “instigated by politicians trying to discredit the Tinubu administration,” insisting the military remained “solidly behind the president.”
Another retired officer, Brigadier General Peter Aro, said today’s military was “professional, globally trained, and deeply aware of the damage coups have done to Africa.”
“These are not the soldiers of the 1980s,” he said. “They are disciplined and loyal to constitutional order.”
Brigadier General George Emdin (retd.) similarly dismissed the report, saying, “If those at the top aren’t involved, forget it—it cannot work.”
Civil Society, Citizens Back Democracy
Civil society groups and many Nigerians also voiced strong support for democratic rule.
YIAGA Africa’s Executive Director, Samson Itodo, said, “Military coups and dictatorships can never be a conversation on the table. Nigeria’s democracy is coming of age.”
Committee for the Defence of Human Rights Chairman, Debo Adeniran, called any coup attempt “a misadventure,” warning that “Nigerians no longer tolerate military rule.”
Nigerians on social media echoed similar sentiments.
One user wrote, “A coup in 2025 under President Tinubu? Those days are gone. No going back to the dark ages.”
Another said, “Nigeria needs reform and accountability, not another cycle of instability.”
Military Stands Firm
Despite the rumours, the Defence Headquarters reiterated its commitment to constitutional rule and national stability.
Security analysts say while the reports have stirred anxiety, the strong pushback from the military, civil society, and legal experts underscores a national consensus: Nigeria’s democracy—however imperfect—remains non-negotiable.
Read the full DHQ statement below.
PRESS RELEASE
DHQ NEVER MENTIONED ANY COUP ATTEMPT
“The attention of the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) 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 report also made spurious references to the recent DHQ press release announcing the arrest of sixteen officers currently under investigation for professional misconduct.
“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. The decision regarding the cancellellation of 65th independence anniversary parade was to allow Mr President attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country and for members of the AFN to sustain the momentum on the fight against terrorism, insurgency and banditry.
Furthermore, the DHQ wishes to reassure Nigerians that the ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism is maintained within the ranks. An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings would be made public.
“The DHQ calls on all peace loving citizens to continue to provide necessary support to the security agents. The FG, the legislature and the judiciary are working closely for the safety, development and well being of the nation. Democracy is forever.
“The DHQ urges members of the public to disregard the falsehood being circulated by the purveyors of misinformation and enemies of our nation. The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.”
“Signed:
TUKUR GUSAU
Brigadier General
Director Defence Information, Abuja
18 October 2025′
