FG backs Defence Headquarters amid coup rumour
The Federal Government has thrown its weight behind the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) following widespread rumours of an alleged military coup plot, which have stirred political tension and public anxiety across Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, dismissed the rumours as “baseless, irresponsible, and dangerous,” warning that those spreading false narratives about a military takeover were trying to destabilise the country.
“The Federal Government stands firmly with the Defence Headquarters and the Armed Forces of Nigeria. These rumours are the handiwork of mischief makers attempting to sow distrust between the civilian leadership and the military,” Idris said.
He assured Nigerians that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration enjoys the full loyalty of the military hierarchy and remains committed to democratic governance.
DHQ Denies Coup Allegation
Earlier, the Defence Headquarters had categorically debunked the claims of a coup plot, describing them as “unfounded propaganda aimed at causing panic and confusion.”
In a statement signed by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, the DHQ reaffirmed the military’s loyalty to the Nigerian Constitution and the democratically elected government.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria is a professional institution committed to the protection of the constitution and the nation’s sovereignty. We urge the public to disregard rumours of any form of military intervention in politics,” the DHQ said.
The statement also cautioned politicians and social media users against “reckless comments” capable of undermining national security or demoralising troops engaged in counterterrorism operations across the country.
Political reactions and tension
The coup rumour, which surfaced on social media over the weekend, quickly escalated into a political firestorm, with opposition figures and civic groups calling for vigilance and transparency from the government.
Some opposition supporters accused the administration of “fueling insecurity and division” that could tempt anti-democratic forces, while others warned that the rumour could itself be used as a pretext to clamp down on dissent.
Meanwhile, lawmakers in the National Assembly urged calm, with Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu describing the report as “a dangerous distraction at a time when the nation should be focused on economic recovery.”
Presidency appeals for restraint
Presidential sources say President Tinubu was briefed on the situation and has ordered security agencies to monitor those spreading false information online.
“The President has absolute confidence in the loyalty and professionalism of Nigeria’s military. This administration will not tolerate any attempts to destabilise the country through fake news or fearmongering,” the source said.
Analysts warn against disinformation
Security analysts have cautioned that coup rumours, even when false, can erode public trust, strain civil-military relations, and embolden insurgent groups.
“In a fragile democracy, rumours like this can have real consequences,” said Dr. Nnenna Okoye, a political analyst based in Abuja. “The government’s swift communication is important, but it must also address the insecurity and governance issues that make such rumours believable.”
Background
Nigeria has remained under democratic rule since 1999 after decades of military coups and dictatorships. The Armed Forces, under current leadership, have repeatedly pledged their allegiance to democratic institutions and civilian authority.
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