Defence Headquarters Confirms Coup Attempt, Indicted Officers to Face Military Trial.
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu
Democracy Newsline | January 27, 2026.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has finally confirmed that some senior military officers were involved in an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government, following the conclusion of an extensive internal investigation.
In a statement issued on Monday, the newly appointed Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, disclosed that investigations into the arrest of sixteen officers in October 2025 have been completed and forwarded to the appropriate superior authority. The officers, ranging in rank from Captain to Brigadier General, were arrested by the Defence Intelligence Agency over acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations.
- Advertisement -
According to Uba, the comprehensive investigation—conducted in line with established military procedures—revealed that several of the officers have cases to answer over allegations of plotting to overthrow the government, conduct described as inconsistent with the ethics, values, and professional standards of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
The arrests had earlier been linked to reports of secret meetings and the controversial cancellation of the October 1, 2025 Independence Day parade. At the time, the DHQ maintained that the probe was a routine disciplinary process aimed at preserving professionalism within the ranks.
Providing an update, Uba said those indicted would be formally arraigned before relevant military judicial panels to face trial in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other applicable service regulations. He emphasized that the process would ensure accountability while upholding fairness and due process.
“The Armed Forces remain resolute in maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, loyalty, and respect for constitutional authority,” Uba stated, stressing that the measures taken are purely disciplinary and part of institutional mechanisms to preserve order, discipline, and operational effectiveness within the military.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, JANUARY 27TH 2026)
