Federal Government dismisses coup plot claims, backs military. Opposition, Afenifere demand transparency amid rising tension and public unease.
FG, Military Deny Coup Plot as Opposition and Afenifere Demand ClarityThe Federal Government has officially dismissed reports of an alleged failed coup plot against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing full confidence in the Nigerian military’s loyalty and professionalism.
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Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known on Sunday in response to a viral report by Sahara Reporters, which claimed that the detention of 16 military officers was linked to a foiled coup attempt.
“The Federal Government believes that the Armed Forces of Nigeria is committed to ensuring the territorial integrity of the country,” Idris said.
On Saturday, the Defence Headquarters issued a strong rebuttal to the coup claim, describing the report as “fake news intended to cause unnecessary tension.”
According to Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, the cancelled Independence Day parade on October 1 was a purely “administrative decision” due to President Tinubu’s international engagements and ongoing military operations.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain firmly loyal to the Constitution… Democracy is forever,” Gusau asserted.
The Defence HQ explained that the detention of 16 officers was part of routine disciplinary procedures, not evidence of a coup plot.
Despite official denials, opposition parties have called for greater transparency from both the government and military authorities.
Spokesman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Ladipo Johnson, said Nigerians deserve full disclosure:
“We must know what actually happened — the charges and whether they are facing court-martial. Nigerians have a right to the truth.”
Labour Party’s interim spokesperson, Tony Akeni, accused the military of inconsistency:
“They say it’s disciplinary, but internal sources point to something more serious. If it’s a coup, say it. If it’s not, clear the air.”
Dr. Yunusa Tanko, Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, cautioned against speculation but acknowledged public discontent could fuel such rumours:
“People are hungry and tired of being manipulated. This frustration is real, even in the military.”
The pan-Yoruba socio-political group Afenifere has also reacted, warning against any attempt to truncate Nigeria’s democracy.
“The Constitution clearly states that government can only be changed through democratic means. Military rule will only take Nigeria backwards.”
In a separate statement, Abagun Kole Omololu, Afenifere’s National Organising Secretary, said the group stands “firmly against any military incursion into governance.”
“From 1966 to 1979, every coup was justified as an anti-corruption measure, but corruption thrived under military regimes. History should warn us, not tempt us.”
He praised ongoing economic reforms under President Tinubu and encouraged dissatisfied officers to “resign and contest in elections instead of contemplating treason.”
The coup rumours have exposed deep-seated public anxiety, fueled by economic hardship, insecurity, and growing distrust in government.
While the military insists the detentions are unrelated to any political ambitions, opposition voices argue that transparency is the only way to dispel suspicion.
The Defence Headquarters reiterated its commitment to the Constitution, urging citizens to disregard destabilising rumours.
As the nation navigates economic recovery and security challenges, stakeholders across the political and civil society spectrum continue to emphasise the importance of constitutional governance, transparency, and democratic stability.
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The Federal Government, military, and opposition now face a common challenge: rebuilding public trust.
