The Defence Headquarters has dismissed as false and malicious reports linking the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary activities to an alleged coup attempt by some military officers.

Sahara Reporters had claimed that the 16 detained officers — ranging from the rank of Captain to Brigadier General — were arrested by the Defence Intelligence Agency for allegedly holding secret meetings to topple the government.

The platform also alleged that the cancellation of the Independence Day parade on October 1 was connected to the purported plot.

In a statement on Saturday by the Director, Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the military said the publication, which also referenced the recent arrest of 16 officers, was intended to create tension and distrust among Nigerians.

“The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to a false and misleading report by an online publication insinuating that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an alleged attempted military coup.

“The claims by the said publication are entirely false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace, ” the statement partly read.

The DHQ explained that the decision to cancel the Independence Day parade was purely administrative, taken to allow President Bola Tinubu to attend a strategic bilateral meeting abroad and enable troops to sustain ongoing military operations across the country.

“The decision regarding the cancellation of the 65th Independence Anniversary parade was to allow Mr President to attend a strategic bilateral meeting outside the country and for members of the Armed Forces to sustain the momentum in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry,” Gusau stated.

On the detention of the 16 officers earlier reported by the military, the DHQ clarified that the matter was strictly a disciplinary issue being handled through an internal investigative process.

“The ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism are maintained within the ranks. An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings will be made public,” the statement added.

Reaffirming the military’s loyalty to the Constitution and democratic governance, the DHQ urged Nigerians to disregard the rumours and continue to support the nation’s security agencies.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Tinubu. Democracy is forever,” Gusau stated.

He further called on citizens to unite in the pursuit of peace and national stability, noting that the executive, legislature, and judiciary are working together to ensure the safety, development, and well-being of all Nigerians

LThe Nigeria Police has issued a stern warning ahead of the planned October 20 protest for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

Omoyele Sowore, a Nigerian activist is organising a protest to demand the release of Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB.

But the police have issued a stern warning that anyone who violated the court order on the protest would be arrested.

It could be recalled that a Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025 made an order restraining the organizers from carrying out protests around Aso Rock Villa and its environs, the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square and Shehu Shagari Way.

In line with the order, the Nigeria Police have vowed that anyone who violated the order would be arrested and prosecuted.

The warning was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin.

The statement reads, “In deference to the authority of the Court and in line with the constitutional mandate of the Police to enforce law and order, the Force hereby calls on all groups — whether in support of or opposed to the ongoing agitation for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu — to adhere strictly to the provisions of the court order. The directive remains binding and enforceable pending further judicial proceedings.

“The Nigeria Police Force recognises and respects the rights of citizens to peaceful assembly and expression. However, such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the limits of the law, particularly where public safety, national security, and the rights of other citizens are concerned. The Court’s intervention is therefore a safeguard, not a suppression, of constitutional freedoms.

“Accordingly, all intending protesters and counter-protest groups are strongly advised to avoid restricted areas and to refrain from any act capable of provoking confrontation or disturbing public order. The Force will ensure the free flow of traffic, protection of lives and property, and security of all law-abiding citizens.

“Any person or group that uses protests as cover to incite violence, carry or use offensive weapons, vandalise public or private property, kidnap, or engage in acts likely to cause loss of life or serious injury will be dealt with decisively.

“Offenders will be arrested, subjected to full investigation, and prosecuted under relevant criminal laws — including laws relating to public order, violent conduct and terrorism where applicable. Those who incite others via social media or other platforms should note that digital evidence will be used in investigations and prosecutions”.

The Enugu State Government has approved a 50 percent reduction in fees for the processing of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) and other land title documents.

This is part of the administration’s move to empower landowners, encourage investment and ensure every property in the state has legitimate documentation.

The announcement, made by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Enugu State Geographic Information System (ENGIS), Mr. Chiwetalu Nwatu, marks yet another milestone in the Mbah administration’s people-oriented and investment-friendly reform agenda.

According to Mr. Nwatu, the discount window will run for 45 days, beginning from October 15, 2025, during which landowners and investors can process their C of O and other title documents at about half the usual cost.

He explained that the policy was introduced to make property ownership more accessible to all, especially unregistered landowners, low-income earners, and the poor, who have long been unable to afford the costs of documentation.

“His Excellency, Dr. Peter Mbah, believes every resident deserves a legitimate and secure claim to their land. This initiative reflects his commitment to inclusivity and economic empowerment,” Nwatu stated.

Reassuring applicants of improved efficiency, Mr. Nwatu noted that under the current administration, Certificates of Occupancy are now processed within 48 to 72 hours, attributing the success to the full digitization of land processing, search, and related services in the state.

He said the automation has made it easier, faster, and more transparent for people to apply for and obtain their land titles without unnecessary delays.

“Beyond affordability, the policy also aims to boost land documentation compliance, promote transparency, and block revenue leakages in land transactions — a problem that has plagued the system for years.

“Residents are therefore encouraged to take advantage of this limited-time opportunity by visiting the Enugu State Geographic Information System (ENGIS) office to process their documents,” he added.

According to him, the governor, who has consistently been praised for his reform-driven leadership, has once again demonstrated that his administration listens to the people and acts decisively to make Enugu a preferred destination for investment and development noting the huge reduction of over 65% for industrial/ commercial properties.

“By easing access to vital land titles, the government not only strengthens property rights but also positions Enugu for rapid urban renewal and sustainable economic growth.

“This 50% average reduction underscores the governor’s unwavering resolve to remove barriers, stimulate investment confidence, and promote prosperity for all,” Nwatu further explained.