Military probe links detained officers to alleged coup plot

The Nigerian military has revealed that its investigation into 16 detained personnel has uncovered links between some of the officers and an alleged plot to overthrow the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The disclosure follows the conclusion of a probe that was initially framed as a disciplinary review involving indiscipline and breaches of service regulations. Military authorities now say officers against whom substantial evidence has been established will be formally arraigned before a military judicial panel to face trial in line with existing laws.

In a statement titled “Update on Disciplinary Cases Involving Sixteen Officers Investigated for Indiscipline, Breach of Service Regulations,” the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, confirmed that investigations had been completed and a final report submitted to superior authorities for necessary action.

He recalled that in October 2025, the Defence Headquarters had first announced the arrest of the 16 officers over alleged acts of indiscipline and violations of military codes, at a time when the military publicly downplayed suggestions of a coup-related investigation.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) wishes to inform the general public that 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 statement said.

Major General Uba explained that the inquiry was conducted meticulously in line with rigorous military procedures, examining both the conduct of the officers and the circumstances surrounding the alleged coup attempt.

According to him, the findings revealed that several officers were implicated in actions aimed at destabilising the government, conduct he described as incompatible with the values, ethics and professional standards of the Armed Forces.

He stated that officers found culpable would be subjected to trial by a military panel in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other relevant legal frameworks, with assurances that fairness and due process would be upheld.

The military said the disciplinary measures are part of a broader effort to preserve institutional integrity and operational effectiveness. “In line with the AFN’s core principles, the measures currently in progress are designed to reinforce discipline and preserve the operational readiness of the force,” Uba said.

He stressed that the Armed Forces remain committed to professionalism, loyalty and respect for Nigeria’s constitutional order, noting that maintaining constitutional authority is central to safeguarding national stability. Earlier, then Acting Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, had described the process as a routine internal probe to ensure discipline and professionalism, stating that the outcome would be made public at the conclusion of the investigation.