Calls for Military Coup Are Treasonable, DHQ Warns

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has issued a stern warning that any calls for a military coup in Nigeria are considered treasonable offenses, urging citizens to respect democratic processes.

The Defence Headquarters has strongly criticized the call for a military coup, labeling it as a treasonous act according to the law.

The warning was issued in a statement signed by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defence Information, on Monday. This followed the emergence of a viral video online in which several individuals angrily called for a military takeover.

It further clarified that no acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS) had been appointed to replace Taoreed Lagbaja, who is reported to be on annual leave.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) would like to make it clear that no announcement has been made regarding the appointment of any senior officer as the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), contrary to claims from some media sources. To clarify, such an appointment does not exist within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).

Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, is currently taking a well-deserved break as part of his annual leave for 2024. The Armed Forces are being professionally managed, with all Service Chiefs fulfilling their responsibilities as outlined in the Constitution of the Federal Government. Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim, serving as Chief of Policy and Plans, is delivering routine briefings to the COAS following standard military protocols.

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The DHQ strongly advises those spreading baseless rumors to stop immediately. The COAS is in good health and will resume normal duties soon after his leave ends.

Moreover, individuals supporting a military takeover, as depicted in a viral video, need to understand that such actions are considered treasonous according to the Constitution.

The AFN is firmly dedicated to preserving and advancing our democracy, consistently supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The military remains committed to fulfilling its statutory responsibilities of safeguarding the nation’s integrity.

The current period of relative peace is directly attributed to the President’s backing of the military and the commitment shown by AFN leadership.

In pursuit of this goal, the AFN and relevant security agencies have been instructed to take appropriate measures against any individual or group promoting unconstitutional changes in the country. The CDS expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their support and prayers, assuring them that victory is certain. Media organizations are encouraged to confirm information with official sources before disseminating false news to the public. Just a few minutes prior, the CDS had spoken with the COAS.