The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) on Friday, April 24, began the trial of 36 military officers accused of conspiring to overthrow the administration of President Bola Tinubu. The defendants arrived at the Scorpion Mess in Asokoro, Abuja, at approximately 8:54 a.m. aboard an Army Headquarters Garrison bus, followed by a Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) detention operations vehicle.
Proceedings were conducted under strict security, with the use of mobile phones banned within the venue. The DHQ had previously stated in October 2025 that military personnel implicated in the alleged coup plot would be formally arraigned before a military court-martial after investigations were concluded.
Background of the Alleged Plot
The military high command confirmed in October 2025 the arrest of several officers for acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations. This followed reports of a failed coup attempt and the subsequent cancellation of Nigeria's Independence Day celebration.
The Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, announced on Monday that investigations into the matter had been completed and the report forwarded to the appropriate superior authority in line with existing regulations. He stated that the comprehensive investigation, conducted according to established military procedures, carefully examined all circumstances surrounding the conduct of the affected personnel.
Findings and Arraignment
According to the findings, a number of officers were identified with allegations of plotting to overthrow the government, which is inconsistent with the ethics, values, and professional standards required of members of the Armed Forces. “Accordingly, those with cases to answer will be formally arraigned before an appropriate military judicial panel to face trial in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other applicable service regulations. This ensures accountability while upholding the principles of fairness and due process,” Uba said.
He explained that the measures being taken are purely disciplinary and part of ongoing institutional mechanisms to preserve order, discipline, and operational effectiveness within the ranks. The defence spokesperson reassured that the Armed Forces remain resolute in maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, loyalty, and respect for constitutional authority.
