The Nigerian military has acknowledged that some of its officers were involved in a plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu
In October last year, reports emerged that officers ranging from the rank of Captain to Brigadier-General had been arrested and detained by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) over an alleged attempt to topple the president.
At the time, both the Defence Headquarters and the Presidency denied any coup attempt, even as speculation grew following President Tinubu’s cancellation of the October 1 Independence Day Parade.
On Monday, Daily Trust reported that a panel investigating the arrested officers had submitted its findings to the president.
Confirming the development, Director of Defence Information, Major-General Samaila Uba, said the panel had forwarded its report to the “appropriate superior authority.” He added that officers found to have cases to answer would be formally arraigned before a military judicial panel to face trial under the Armed Forces Act and other relevant service regulations.
Uba stated: “The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) wishes to inform the general public that investigations into the matter have been concluded and the report forwarded to appropriate superior authority in line with extant regulations. The comprehensive investigation process, conducted in accordance with established military procedures, has carefully examined all circumstances surrounding the conduct of the affected personnel.
“The findings have 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 AFN. Accordingly, those with cases to answer will be formally arraigned before appropriate military judicial panel to face trial in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other applicable service regulations.”
The military explained that public disclosure of the probe was aimed at ensuring accountability while upholding fairness and due process. Uba emphasized that the Armed Forces remain committed to professionalism, loyalty, and respect for constitutional authority.
He added, “The AFN reiterates that measures being taken are purely disciplinary and part of ongoing institutional mechanisms to preserve order, discipline, and operational effectiveness within the ranks.”
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