Islamic Cleric Linked to Alleged Coup Plot Against President Tinubu Transferred to DSS
The Defence Intelligence Agency has formally transferred detained Islamic cleric Sheikh Sani Abdulkadir Zaria to the Department of State Services following serious accusations of involvement in a conspiracy to overthrow President Bola Tinubu's government. This development occurs despite a Federal High Court order mandating the cleric's production for a crucial bail hearing, raising significant legal and procedural concerns about due process and national security protocols.
Court Order Ignored as Cleric Moved Between Security Agencies
Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja had explicitly ordered the Defence Intelligence Agency to produce Sheikh Abdulkadir on February 18, 2026, to determine his bail application. However, during the resumed hearing on February 20, counsel to the cleric, Mohammed Sheriff, informed the court that his client had been transferred to the DSS instead, following the DIA's failure to present him as directed. The judge's absence on the hearing day, attributed to his attendance at the inauguration of 14 new Federal High Court judges at the Supreme Court, further complicated the proceedings and left the matter unresolved.
Fundamental Rights Suit and Family Connections to Financial Transaction
Sheikh Abdulkadir has initiated a fundamental rights enforcement suit against multiple entities including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Defence Intelligence Agency, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, and Jaiz Bank Plc. The legal action seeks his immediate release from detention, which he argues constitutes a violation of his constitutional rights. Meanwhile, family sources have connected the cleric's detention to a N2 million financial transaction involving a follower implicated in the coup allegations. The money was reportedly transferred as a gift to the account of the detained leader of the Fityanul Islam Tijanniyya sect.
Extended Detention and Judicial Observations on Security Concerns
Justice Lifu noted during proceedings that Sheikh Abdulkadir has been held in what authorities describe as "safe custody" since December 11, 2025, without access to family members or associates. The judge explained that this extended detention relates to ongoing investigations characterized as security-related matters. This case continues to generate important questions about the balance between state authority and individual rights, while highlighting growing tensions between Nigeria's security apparatus and the judiciary regarding the handling of politically sensitive cases.
Broader Context of Military Arrests and Trial Mode Uncertainty
This development occurs within a broader context of military arrests related to alleged coup plotting. In October 2025, authorities detained 16 senior officers including a Brigadier General, a Naval officer, and Air Force personnel. Initially, officials denied any connection to coup plotting, but on January 26, the Defence Headquarters acknowledged the arrests were indeed linked to an alleged plan to topple President Tinubu's administration. Reports indicate the Federal Government has not yet determined whether accused officers will face trial in military courts or civilian courts, with sources suggesting this indecision stems from the alleged offense occurring under a democratic government rather than during military regimes where court-martial proceedings were standard.
