Turkur Gusau Fires Back: ‘Coup Allegations Are Lies Meant to Break Nigeria

Turkur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, has delivered a stern rejection of circulating claims alleging a military coup attempt against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In a detailed statement released to journalists, Gusau described the rumours as fictional, provocative, and intentionally crafted misinformation aimed at heightening anxiety within the Nigerian populace. He emphasized that the Defence Headquarters views the publication as a calculated attempt to undermine public trust in the Armed Forces and destabilize democratic confidence at a sensitive time in national history.

Turkur Gusau stressed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) remains “resolutely loyal” to the Constitution, the Commander-in-Chief, and the democratic order. He warned that coup-related propaganda is not only irresponsible but carries dangerous implications for national unity, investor confidence, security morale, and Nigeria’s global image. According to him, the Defence Headquarters holds zero tolerance for subversive narratives capable of inciting panic, emboldening extremist elements, or reviving memories of eras that Nigeria has permanently left behind.

Turkur Gusau appealed to Nigerians to reject the “false, malicious and destabilising report” and instead stand firm behind lawful institutions. He reiterated that the online platform that published the coup allegation deliberately misrepresented the recent arrest of sixteen military officers and falsely connected it to a non-existent conspiracy. The general assured citizens that democracy is not negotiable and remains firmly protected under the custody of the Armed Forces.

Turkur Gusau: Parade Cancellation Due to Bilateral Duties and Security Priorities, Not Coup Plot

Turkur Gusau further clarified that the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary parade has absolutely no relationship with any alleged plot or internal disloyalty within the military. He explained that the decision was taken to allow President Tinubu attend a crucial bilateral meeting abroad — a diplomatic engagement that aligns with Nigeria’s long-term strategic and economic interest. Gusau said it would be irresponsible for anyone to politicize a straightforward administrative decision by spinning it into a narrative of chaos or treachery.

Turkur Gusau emphasized that the Armed Forces are presently engaged in intensive military operations across multiple theatres, including anti-terrorism campaigns, anti-banditry missions and counter-insurgency initiatives. He noted that the military must sustain operational momentum, and that this ongoing battle against criminal elements requires focus, manpower, logistics, and strategic deployment — priorities that naturally outweigh ceremonial parades. According to him, national security demands discipline, vigilance, and flexibility, not distractions built on sensationalism.

Turkur Gusau condemned individuals who attempted to exploit the parade cancellation to spread fear and fake news, calling them “enemies of stability and profiteers of misinformation.” He reaffirmed that the Nigerian Armed Forces remain united, professionally guided, and fundamentally committed to the defence of the nation — not partisan intrigue or unconstitutional ambitions.

Turkur Gusau also addressed public curiosity regarding the sixteen officers currently under internal investigation, clarifying that their situation is a routine disciplinary measure and bears no connection whatsoever to a coup attempt. He explained that the Armed Forces operates on strict codes of conduct, and any violations — ethical, procedural, or professional — must undergo internal scrutiny. Gusau assured that an investigative panel has already commenced its work, and its eventual findings will be made known to Nigerians transparently and responsibly.

Turkur Gusau stated that maintaining discipline within the ranks is central to sustaining public trust, military honour, and institutional stability. He cautioned that attaching coup narratives to every internal military process is an outdated mindset that must be discarded by the public and the media alike. The general reiterated that the AFN is not a political actor, not a power-hungry institution, and not an organisation “seeking relevance through unconstitutional shortcuts.”

Turkur Gusau concluded by urging Nigerians to support security forces, cooperate with lawful authorities, and avoid spreading unverified claims. He reassured the country that the Federal Government, the Armed Forces, the Legislature and the Judiciary remain aligned for national peace, development, and democratic continuity. According to him, “Democracy is forever, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria remains unwavering in its loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and to the sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”