The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) today, April 24, commenced the trial of 36 military officers accused of plotting to overthrow the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

 

 

 

The 36 defendants arrived at the Scorpion Mess, Asokoro, Abuja at about 8:54am in an Army Headquarters Garrison bus, followed by a Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) detention operations vehicle.

 

 

 

Proceedings were conducted under tight security with the use of mobile phones barred within the venue.

 

 

 

The DHQ had, in October 2025, stated that military officers involved in the alleged coup plot would be formally arraigned before a military court-martial following the conclusion of investigations.

 

 

 

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 Independence Day celebration.

 

 

 

The Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, had on Monday said investigations into the matter had been concluded and the report forwarded to the appropriate superior authority in line with extant regulations.

 

 

 

He stated that the comprehensive investigation process, conducted in accordance with established military procedures, carefully examined all circumstances surrounding the conduct of the affected personnel.

 

 

 

According to him, the findings identified a number of 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 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.