- Bars journalists from covering
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), on Friday, commenced the trial of 36 military officers accused of plotting to overthrow the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
The trial commenced behind closed doors at the Scorpion Mess, Asokoro Abuja, with journalists barred from coverage.
The defendants numbering 36 arrived at the court at about 8:54am in an Army Headquarters Garrison bus followed by a Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) detention operations vehicle.
The DHQ, in October 2025, said military officers involved in the alleged coup plot will be formally arraigned before military court trial following the conclusion of investigation.
The military high command in October 2025 confirmed the arrest of some officers over acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations. This followed reports of a botched coup attempt and the subsequent cancellation of Nigeria’s Independent celebration.
The Director Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said on Monday that investigations into the matter have been concluded and the report forwarded to appropriate superior authority in line with extant regulations.
He stated that the comprehensive investigation process, conducted in accordance with established military procedures, has carefully examined all circumstances surrounding the conduct of the affected personnel.
According to him, the findings have identified a number of the officers 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 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.