The Federal Government has filed a 13-count charge before the Federal High Court in Abuja against individuals accused of plotting to overt...
The Federal Government has filed a 13-count charge before the Federal High Court in Abuja against individuals accused of plotting to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Among those listed in the charge are a retired major general, a retired naval captain, a serving police inspector, and three other suspects. The defendants are accused of waging war against the Nigerian state and committing offences bordering on treason and terrorism.
Background to the Allegations
The development follows months of controversy surrounding an alleged coup plot first reported in late 2025.
In October 2025, the Federal Government cancelled a planned military parade meant to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary. Shortly after, speculation emerged linking the cancellation to a suspected coup attempt. However, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) dismissed the claims, maintaining that the decision was unrelated.
On October 31, 2025, reports indicated that about 16 military officers had been arrested earlier that month over the alleged plot, with two others said to be at large.
The DHQ later confirmed in January 2026 that investigations had uncovered a plot to overthrow the government. The Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, stated that findings from internal military procedures implicated some personnel, who were to be arraigned before appropriate judicial panels.
Calls for Open Trial
In March 2026, relatives of detained officers called on the President to ensure that the suspects are tried in an open court. At a press conference in Abuja, family members, including spouses of the accused, demanded transparency in the proceedings and access to those in custody.
The agitation continued in April, when families staged a protest at the entrance of the National Assembly, calling for a speedy trial and unrestricted access to their detained relatives.
The case is expected to test Nigeria’s judicial and security institutions, as proceedings begin at the Federal High Court.
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