From Victor Osula, Abuja
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has officially confirmed a foiled plot to overthrow the government of President Bola Tinubu, ordering the court-martial of 16 officers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The announcement, made on Monday, January 26, 2026, marks the first time the military has publicly acknowledged that the arrests made in October 2025 were linked to a coup attempt.
Previously, the DHQ had described the detentions as part of routine investigations into “acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations.”
In a statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the military confirmed that a comprehensive probe has now been concluded.
The investigation identified a number of the 16 officers with specific cases to answer regarding the alleged plot to topple the administration.
“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 Armed Forces,” the statement read.
The 16 officers, reportedly including a Brigadier General, a Colonel, and several Lieutenant Colonels and Majors, will be formally arraigned before military judicial panels. They face trial in accordance with the Armed Forces Act.
Major General Uba emphasized that the military remains committed to the rule of law and constitutional authority.
He noted that the disciplinary measures are essential to preserving institutional cohesion and ensuring that the military remains focused on its primary role of national defense.
The October 2025 arrests had initially sparked widespread speculation after the government significantly scaled back Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary celebrations, citing “security concerns.”
While the DHQ denied coup rumors at the time, today’s admission confirms that a serious breach of service loyalty was under investigation.
The military has assured the public that the court-martial proceedings will adhere to principles of fairness and due process, though the trials are expected to be held behind closed doors due to the sensitive nature of national security evidence.
