The Defence Headquarters has dismissed as false and malicious reports linking the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary activities to an alleged coup attempt by some military officers.

In a statement on Saturday by the Director, Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the military said the publication, which also referenced the recent arrest of 16 officers, was intended to create tension and distrust among Nigerians.

“The decision regarding the cancellation of the 65th Independence Anniversary parade was to allow Mr President to attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country and for members of the Armed Forces to sustain the momentum in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry,” Gusau stated.

On the detention of the 16 officers earlier reported by the military, the DHQ clarified that the matter was strictly a disciplinary issue being handled through an internal investigative process.