The federal government has instituted a 13-count charge at the federal high court in Abuja against individuals accused of plotting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu.
Those listed in the case include a retired major general, a retired naval captain, a serving police inspector, and three others.
The defendants are alleged to have engaged in actions aimed at waging war against the country, with charges bordering on treason and terrorism.
the alleged plot
In October 2025, the federal government called off a planned parade to mark Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary on October 1.
Shortly after, reports emerged linking the cancellation to an alleged coup attempt, although the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) denied any connection between both developments.
Later that month, reports indicated that 16 military officers had been arrested over the suspected plot, while two others were declared at large.
By January 2026, the DHQ confirmed the existence of a plan to unseat the president. Samaila Uba, director of defence information, said investigations carried out in line with military procedures identified personnel involved in the alleged plot.
He added that those implicated would face trial before appropriate military judicial panels.
In March, relatives of detained officers appealed to the president to allow the suspects to be tried openly in court. During a press briefing in Abuja, the families also demanded access to the detained individuals.
In April, the families staged a protest at the entrance of the national assembly, calling for a speedy trial and access to their relatives.