The federal government has filed a 13-count charge at a federal high court in Abuja against people it says planned a coup to remove President Bola Tinubu.
Those charged include a retired major general, a retired naval captain, a serving police inspector, and three others. The government accuses them of trying to wage war against Nigeria and of committing offences related to treason and terrorism.
Background to the Case
In October 2025, the government cancelled a parade that was planned to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day on October 1. Soon after, reports suggested the cancellation was linked to a possible coup attempt.
However, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) denied this. It said the cancellation “had no links to the alleged coup attempt.”
Later that month, reports said 16 military officers were arrested in the first week of October over the alleged plot, while two others were still being sought.
In January 2026, the DHQ confirmed there was a plan to overthrow the president. Samaila Uba, director of defence information, said investigations carried out under military procedures found that some personnel were involved.
He said the officers would be taken before the appropriate military panels.
Families Demand Open Trial
In March, families of the detained officers asked the president to allow the suspects to be tried in an open court. At a press conference in Abuja, wives and relatives also asked for access to those accused of leading the plot.
In April, the families protested at the entrance of the National Assembly. They demanded a quick trial and the right to see their detained relatives.
The case is now before the court, where the government will try to prove the allegations.
