Families of Detained Nigerian Military Officers Break Silence in Coup Plot Case
In a significant development, relatives of sixteen Nigerian military officers detained over allegations of plotting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu have publicly appealed for mercy and a fair judicial process. The families, who had maintained silence since the officers' arrest in October 2025, have now reached out to top political and government authorities at the seat of power, urging compassion in what they describe as a dire situation for their loved ones.
Desperate Appeals for Presidential Mercy
During exclusive interviews, family members revealed their emotional distress and practical concerns about the detention of their relatives. One relative of a detained Major explained that while they recognize the gravity of the alleged offense under military and national laws, they cannot afford to lose their loved ones at this critical time.
"We know the offence is grave considering the military laws and laws of the land, but these people are our loved ones, we can't afford to lose them now," the family member stated. "In fact, they are breadwinners to their respective families."
The relative made a direct appeal to President Tinubu, describing him as "our father" and "a father of the nation," while pleading for mercy tempered with justice. "We are not saying they shouldn't be punished, but we don't want their death now," the family member emphasized, highlighting the human dimension of the legal proceedings.
Shock and Concern Over Detention Conditions
Another family member, speaking anonymously due to the sensitivity of the matter, expressed initial disbelief about the detention of their sons. "Initially, we thought they were detained unjustly, but with what we are hearing, all we need now is to appeal to the Nigerian people," the relative explained.
The family member made an emotional plea to both the president and the Nigerian public, noting that "the children of some of them are still young" and expressing hope that the detained officers "must have learnt their lessons" from the experience. This appeal underscores the broader impact of the detentions on multiple families across the nation.
Security Experts Call for Transparent Proceedings
Security analyst Abdullahi Garba has joined the calls for due process, emphasizing the need for an open and fair trial of the detained officers. Garba warned that failure to conduct transparent proceedings could create perceptions of victimization, particularly since most of the officers reportedly hail from one specific region of the country.
This concern about regional representation adds another layer of complexity to the case, potentially affecting public perception of the military justice system and its impartiality in handling such sensitive matters.
Historical Perspective on Coup Attempts
Retired Major Bashir Galma, who participated in the 1983 coup that overthrew the civilian government, provided historical context by describing coup plotting as a "risky venture." Recalling his own experience, Galma noted that "there is no job that doesn't have its occupational hazard" when it comes to military interventions in governance.
The retired officer shared details of his role in the December 31, 1983 takeover, where as an army Captain he was assigned to "take over broadcasting houses and telecommunication networks in Kaduna." This historical perspective highlights the serious nature of coup allegations within Nigeria's military history while providing context for current events.
Legal Consequences and Military Response
The detained officers, who range in rank from Captain to Brigadier-General, were arrested by the Defence Intelligence Agency in October 2025 and have been held in detention since that time. According to military sources, the officers have been declared guilty of attempting to topple the government and are awaiting court martial proceedings.
Reports indicate that the sixteen indicted officers face severe penalties under military law, with potential consequences ranging from life imprisonment to the death penalty. The military high command has confirmed that the officers were found guilty of the alleged plot against President Tinubu's administration, though formal court proceedings have yet to commence.
Broader Implications for Military Discipline
This case represents a significant test for Nigeria's military justice system and its approach to internal discipline. The families' appeals highlight the tension between maintaining strict military order and showing compassion for service members who have dedicated their careers to national defense.
As the situation develops, observers will be watching closely to see how the military balances these competing concerns while maintaining public confidence in its disciplinary processes and commitment to constitutional governance.
