The Nigeria Defence headquarters debunked allegations in an online media organisation on Monday claiming that the Presidential Guards Brigade has been put on high alert following suspicious movements around the seat of power, indicating fears of a coup plot.
“The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to a malicious and unfounded article published online on February 25, 2024, claiming that the Guards Brigade has been put on high alert following unusual movements, leading to suspicion of a coup plot in Nigeria,” according to a statement by Brigadier Gen. Tukur Gusau, acting director of defence information.
Jerrymusa.com reports that the article further stated, among other things, that President Bola Tinubu, the President’s Chief of Staff, and the Commander of the Guards Brigade met in emergency as a result of the suspicion.
“Defence Headquarters wishes to assert unequivocally that the accusation is wholly untrue.
“For the avoidance of disputes, the guards brigade has the legal mandate to guard the presidency, which is the seat of power and consequently, the Federal Capital Region and its surroundings.
Guards Brigade on High Alert
“As a result, it should be mentioned that the Guards Brigade has always maintained a high state of alertness in order to carry out its designated duties.
“Recall that General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, has reaffirmed in multiple forums the unwavering dedication of Nigerian military personnel to defending and advancing democracy in the country.
“As a result, the public is urged to ignore this unsupported claim, which is simply the publisher’s fantasy, by the Defence Headquarters, which also strongly condemns it.
“Additionally, the Defence Headquarters demands that the Sahara Reporters immediately face adequate consequences for their disloyal actions from relevant security authorities.
“In the meantime, the Defence Headquarters intends to pursue legal action to address the matter, which has the hidden goal of inciting needless strain among the nation.”