The Defence Headquarters has formally inaugurated a General Court Martial to try 36 serving military personnel accused of mutiny and an alleged plot to overthrow the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu. This development was confirmed on Friday, April 24, by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba.
Background of the Alleged Plot
The action follows earlier directives issued in January 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to maintain discipline and constitutional authority within the Armed Forces. Major General Uba stated that the inauguration represents a further step in the military's commitment to accountability and national stability.
Official Statement from Defence HQ
“The Defence Headquarters has today, 24 April 2026, inaugurated a General Court Martial to try 36 serving military personnel over alleged mutiny, aimed at overthrowing the government of the day. This is in furtherance of the DHQ’s statement issued on 26 January 2026 which dwelled on the subject,” Uba said.
He added that the proceedings would be conducted strictly within established legal frameworks governing military justice, ensuring fairness and due process. “The inauguration marks a significant step in reinforcing discipline, accountability and the commitment of the Armed Forces to safeguarding national integrity and constituted authority,” he explained.
Previous Arrests and Investigations
The latest action is part of a broader investigation into suspected disloyalty within the military. In October 2025, the Defence Headquarters confirmed the arrest of 16 officers over alleged breaches of service regulations and suspected involvement in a coup-related plot. Authorities concluded those investigations, and those found culpable are now facing military judicial proceedings.
Related Civilian Prosecutions
Separately, the Federal Government has initiated legal steps against individuals linked to the alleged plot, including retired senior military officers. They were arraigned before a Federal High Court in Abuja on charges of conspiracy to overthrow the government. A former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources has also been named as being at large. The case remains before the court as investigations continue.
The Defence Headquarters assured that the trial would be handled with the highest standards of fairness and impartiality. “Proceedings of the court will be conducted with the highest standards of fairness, impartiality and strict adherence to due process, guaranteeing that justice will be served without fear or favour,” Uba said.
