Calls for military coup in Nigeria treasonable – Army

Director,  Defence Information,  Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau

October 21, 2024 | 05:30 PM ET |

Abuja: The Defense Headquarters (DHQ) has put out a strong warning to anyone or any organization calling for a military coup in Nigeria, stressing that doing so would be treasonous under the Constitution.

In a statement issued by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defense Information, the DHQ made it clear that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) remain focused on their statutory duties, which include protecting the nation’s territorial integrity and ensuring peace and security.

“Additionally, those advocating for a military takeover, as seen in a viral video, should be aware that such actions are treasonable under the Constitution,” Brigadier General Gusau said. He further underscored that the AFN is steadfast in its commitment to democracy and fully supports President Tinubu’s administration.

Gusau noted that the relative peace being enjoyed in the country is a result of the President’s support for the military and the dedication of the Armed Forces leadership. He reassured Nigerians that the military, in collaboration with other security agencies, will take all necessary measures to prevent any attempts at unconstitutional change.

“The military remains focused on achieving its statutory responsibilities of protecting the nation’s integrity,” Gusau said, adding that “the AFN and relevant security agencies have been mandated to take necessary action against any individual or group advocating for unconstitutional changes in the country.”

The DHQ’s statement comes amid concerns raised by a viral video advocating for military intervention, an issue the military has now firmly addressed.

Read DHQ’s full statement here:

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) wishes to clarify that it has not announced the appointment of any senior officer as the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), contrary to speculation by certain media outlets. For the record, no such appointment exists within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, is currently on a well-deserved rest as part of his 2024 annual leave. The AFN is professionally managed and all the Service Chiefs are performing their duties as stipulated in the Constitutionof the FGN. Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, is providing routine briefs to the COAS in accordance with standard military procedures.

The DHQ urges individuals spreading unfounded rumours to desist from doing so immediately. The COAS is hale and hearty and will soon resume normal duties at the end of his leave.

Media organizations are advised to verify information with the appropriate authorities before releasing fake news to the public. The CDS had only spoken with the COAS a few minutes ago.

Additionally, those advocating for a military takeover, as seen in a viral video, should be aware that such actions are treasonable under the Constitution.

The AFN is steadfastly committed to the preservation and advancement of our democracy and are loyal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The military remains focused on achieving its statutory responsibilities of protecting the nation’s integrity.

The relative peace being enjoyed today is a direct result of the President’s support for the military and the dedication of the AFN leadership.

To this end, the AFN and relevant security agencies have been mandated to take necessary action against any individual or group advocating for unconstitutional changes in the country. The CDS appreciates Nigerians for their support and prayers. Victory is assured.”

Signed
TUKUR GUSAU
Brigadier General
Director Defence Information
21 October 2024