THE Defense Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed reports that military officers are planning to disrupt the 2023 general elections in connivance with some politicians.
The military high command dismissed reports alleging a meeting with a presidential candidate by serving military officers on Thursday, February 9.
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In a statement released on Saturday, February 11, by the acting Director, Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Armed Forces described the claims as wicked and very malicious propaganda.
The military also said speculations of a plot by military officers to oust the present civilian government and throw the country into a constitutional crisis were unfounded.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria notes with dismay the story being peddled around by some unscrupulous elements alleging that some military officers met with a Presidential candidate with the aim of disrupting the general elections and setting the country on fire. The wicked and very malicious propaganda indicated that a so-called Thursday meeting was plotting a Coup d’etat to establish unconstitutional order.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria is disheartened that even politically exposed persons can denigrate themselves into joining agents of destabilisation and violence in making false claims to heighten tension in the polity.”
The DHQ added that the force’s professional body has remained non-partisan and is loyal to the country’s Constitution.
The military warned against fabricating and spreading unfounded claims, noting that law enforcement agencies will invite those caught doing such to substantiate their claims.
The Presidential and National Assembly polls will be conducted on February 25, while the governorship and state assembly elections will be conducted on March 11.
Beloved John is an investigative reporter with International Centre for Investigative Reporting.
You can reach her via: [email protected]