Prosper Okoye
The Nigerian military has confirmed that some of the 16 officers detained last year are to face trial over an alleged attempt to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government.
The confirmation comes after the conclusion of investigations into allegations of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations involving the officers.
In a statement on Monday, the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said:
“Investigations into the matter have now concluded, and the final report has been submitted to the appropriate superior authorities for further action, as per established military regulations.”
The officers were originally arrested in October 2025 over suspected acts of indiscipline. The military had previously denied reports linking them to a coup, stressing the inquiry was part of routine internal disciplinary processes.
Major General Uba explained that the probe was thorough and meticulous. “The investigation examined both the conduct of the officers and the circumstances surrounding the alleged coup attempt. Findings revealed that several officers were implicated in actions aimed at destabilising the government, which is incompatible with the values, ethics, and professional standards of the Armed Forces,” he said.
The officers against whom evidence has been established will now be formally arraigned before a military judicial panel, the military said, adding that trials would follow the Armed Forces Act and other relevant legal frameworks.
“In line with the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s core principles, these measures are designed to reinforce discipline and preserve the operational readiness of the force,” Major General Uba said. “We remain committed to professionalism, loyalty, and respect for Nigeria’s constitutional order.”
The military described the disciplinary action as part of broader efforts to safeguard institutional integrity and maintain national stability.
Human rights groups and civil society organisations have in the past called for due process and transparency in handling the case, amid concerns over reports of potential political motivations behind the arrests.
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The investigation and upcoming trials come amid heightened security concerns in Nigeria, with the government keen to maintain order within the armed forces and across the country.
Prosper Okoye is a Correspondent and Research Writer at Prime Business Africa, a Nigerian journalist with experience in development reporting, public affairs, and policy-focused storytelling across Africa
