Military Coup Plot: Presidency Issues Fresh Warnings
- The Presidency has warned that coup rumours hurt investor confidence and harm Nigeria’s global image
- Bayo Onanuga urged the media to avoid sensational reporting and wait for verified security information
- The Defence Headquarters also dismissed coup claims and affirmed the military's loyalty to democracy
FCT, Abuja - The Presidency has cautioned that recent media reports alleging a military coup plot are harming Nigeria’s economy and discouraging potential foreign investors.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, stressed that unverified claims about national security could undermine investor confidence and damage the country’s image globally.
Source: UGC
Speaking during an interview on Arise News’ Prime Time on Thursday night, October 30, Onanuga said:
“When a country is looking for investment and the media are shouting ‘coup attempt’, it scares investors away.
“Stories like that can destroy the country’s reputation and economy. We need to wait for facts, evidence, not rumours.”
Coup rumours: Media urged to exercise restraint
Onanuga further appealed to journalists and the Nigerian public to allow security agencies to conclude their investigations before pushing sensitive narratives.
He acknowledged the military had confirmed the arrest of certain individuals but emphasised that no credible evidence had been established linking the development to a coup attempt.
“Leaping to conclusions before official confirmation portends grave consequences for the nation,” he warned.
Sensational reporting on alleged Nigerian coup criticised
The presidential aide also criticised what he described as a 'rising appetite for sensationalism and online traffic', stressing that not every piece of information is suitable for publication.
“Some media outlets ran with the story for clicks and attention. But, as patriotic Nigerians, we must know that what we report has implications for our economy and stability,” Onanuga noted.
He added that although many Nigerians distrust official statements, the media still have a duty to report responsibly.
“It’s true people don’t always trust government, that happens everywhere. But the media also have a social responsibility to be cautious and wait for facts,” he said.
Source: Twitter
Defence Headquarters dismisses coup rumour
Onanuga’s remarks follow an October 19 report by Sahara Reporters alleging that some military officers were planning to topple the government, a claim later denied by the Defence Headquarters.
Brigadier-General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, also described the arrests mentioned in the report as internal disciplinary issues, rather than signs of political interference.
Furthermore, he said the publication was 'intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace', urging citizens to disregard such speculation.
The Defence Headquarters reiterated the military’s loyalty to the Nigerian constitution and its commitment to protecting democracy.
Alleged coup: Over 40 officers detained
Legit.ng also previously reported that the number of officers detained in connection with an alleged military coup attempt against President Bola Tinubu’s administration has increased to 42, according to security sources.
The Defence Headquarters had earlier announced that 16 officers were arrested over disciplinary matters. However, multiple security sources said the arrests were related to an alleged plan to interrupt Nigeria’s 26-year democracy.
Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at Legit.ng.
Source: Legit.ng
