‎DHQ Confirms Findings on Alleged Coup Plot, Begins Military Trial Process

‎DHQ Confirms Findings on Alleged Coup Plot, Begins Military Trial Process
‎The cancellation of the October 1 Independence Day parade was connected to the suspected plot
‎Says the process would be guided by fairness, due process and accountability

‎The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that an internal investigation into alleged misconduct by some military officers uncovered claims that a group of them plotted to overthrow the government.

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‎Eko Hot Blog reports that the probe follows the arrest of 16 officers in October 2025, ranging in rank from Captain to Brigadier General, over acts of indiscipline and violations of service regulations.

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At the time, reports linked the arrests to alleged clandestine meetings aimed at toppling the government, while speculation also suggested that the cancellation of the October 1 Independence Day parade was connected to the suspected plot.

‎The then Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, had described the matter as a purely internal disciplinary issue.

‎However, providing an update on Monday, the new Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said a comprehensive investigation had now been concluded in line with established military procedures.

‎Uba confirmed that findings from the investigation showed that some of the officers have cases to answer over allegations of plotting to overthrow the government. He said the report has since been forwarded to the appropriate superior authority for further action.

‎“The comprehensive investigation process, conducted in accordance with established military procedures, has carefully examined all circumstances surrounding the conduct of the affected personnel,” the statement read.

“The findings have identified a number of the 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 of Nigeria.”

‎DHQ Confirms Findings on Alleged Coup Plot, Begins Military Trial Process — Major General Samaila Uba

‎He added that the indicted officers would be formally arraigned before relevant military judicial panels and tried under the Armed Forces Act and other applicable service regulations.

‎According to him, the process would be guided by fairness, due process and accountability.

‎“The Armed Forces of Nigeria reiterate that the measures being taken are purely disciplinary and part of ongoing institutional mechanisms to preserve order, discipline and operational effectiveness within the ranks,” Uba said.

‎He further stressed that the military remains committed to professionalism, loyalty and respect for constitutional authority, noting that the proceedings are intended to reinforce discipline within the armed forces rather than constitute criminal prosecution in civilian courts.