In a bid to correct the unsettling rumors circulating online, the Defence Headquarters on Monday refuted claims made by a certain online media organization regarding the Presidential Guards Brigade being placed on high alert due to suspicious movements around the seat of power, hinting at fears of a coup plot.
The Acting Director of Defence Information, Brigadier Gen Tukur Gusau, issued a statement vehemently denying the allegations. He clarified that the Guards Brigade is consistently on high alert, as it is entrusted with safeguarding the seat of power, the Presidency, along with the Federal Capital Territory and its surroundings.
“The publication’s assertion of an emergency meeting involving President Bola Tinubu, the Chief of Staff to the President, and the Commander of the Guards Brigade is utterly false,” declared Brigadier Gen Tukur Gusau.
Highlighting the statutory responsibility of the Guards Brigade, he emphasized that their perpetual state of alertness is essential for the effective execution of their assigned tasks. General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, had previously affirmed the unwavering commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to protecting and upholding democracy.
The Defence Headquarters took a strong stand against the baseless claims, condemning them as a mere product of the publisher’s imagination. They urged the public to disregard the unfounded assertions and called upon relevant security agencies to take appropriate action against the media outlet responsible for the misinformation, in this case, Sahara Reporters.
Expressing their commitment to addressing the issue, the Defence Headquarters announced their intention to seek legal redress, citing the ulterior motive of creating unnecessary tension in the country. In the face of speculative reporting, the Defence Headquarters stands firm, upholding truth, and condemning misinformation.