The Nigerian military has launched a closed-door trial of officers accused of attempting to overthrow the country’s democratic government, with journalists denied access to the proceedings.

The trial, being conducted under a General Court Martial, commenced in Abuja under heavy security and strict restrictions. Defence correspondents who had initially been invited to cover the inauguration at the Scorpion Officers’ Mess were unexpectedly asked to leave shortly after the arrival of a bus conveying the accused personnel.

Eyewitnesses said the journalists were escorted out without any explanation, a move many described as surprising and discourteous, especially since they had earlier been granted entry by military authorities.

Confirming the development, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) announced that a General Court Martial had been set up to try 36 serving military officers over alleged breaches of national security.

In a statement dated April 24, 2026, the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said the charges include mutiny and an alleged plot to topple the government.

“The Defence Headquarters has inaugurated a General Court Martial to try 36 serving personnel over alleged mutiny aimed at overthrowing the government,” the statement read.

Uba noted that the action follows an earlier announcement made on January 26, 2026, and reflects the Armed Forces’ resolve to uphold discipline and accountability.

He assured that the proceedings would be conducted fairly and in line with due process, stressing that justice would be served without bias.

The DHQ also reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, adherence to the rule of law, and respect for the rights of all personnel involved.

The trial comes after months of evolving official positions on the matter. In October 2025, the military had announced the arrest of 16 senior officers, attributing their actions to indiscipline and violations of military regulations, while denying any coup attempt.

At the time, authorities linked the unrest to dissatisfaction over repeated failures in promotion examinations and stalled career progression. Some of the officers were also said to be facing separate disciplinary actions.

However, by January 2026, the military revised its stance, confirming that investigations had uncovered a failed coup attempt involving several officers.

According to the DHQ, the probe revealed actions that violated the ethical and professional standards expected of military personnel.

Further highlighting the seriousness of the allegations, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd), disclosed that he was among those allegedly targeted by the plotters. Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics on February 1, 2026, Musa stated that plans had been made to arrest him and possibly assassinate him if he resisted.

The ongoing court martial is expected to determine the guilt or innocence of the accused officers as the military moves to address what it considers a major threat to national security.