The Nigerian military has confirmed that findings from an investigation into 16 detained personnel have linked some officers to an alleged attempt to overthrow the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
This disclosure was contained in a statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba.
According to the statement, officers against whom substantial evidence was established would be formally arraigned before a military judicial panel to face trial in line with the Armed Forces Act and other relevant service regulations.
The statement recalled that in October 2025, the Defence Headquarters had announced the arrest of 16 officers over allegations of indiscipline and violations of military codes.
It stated, “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.”
Uba said the investigation was conducted meticulously in line with the military’s established procedures, adding that it examined in detail the actions of the officers involved as well as the circumstances surrounding the alleged coup attempt.
According to him, the findings revealed that several officers were implicated in a plot to destabilise the government, an action which he said was clearly at odds with the values, ethics and professional standards of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The statement further said, “those found to be involved will be subjected to trial by a military panel in line with the Armed Forces Act and other relevant legal frameworks, ensuring full accountability and adherence to the principles of fairness and due process.”
The Armed Forces of Nigeria also clarified that the disciplinary measures being taken form part of an ongoing process aimed at safeguarding the integrity and operational effectiveness of the military.
It reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces to the highest standards of professionalism, loyalty, and respect for Nigeria’s constitutional order.
“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 added that the military’s firm stance on upholding constitutional authority underscores its continued dedication to national stability and its resolve to ensure that all personnel operate strictly within the bounds of their duties and service regulations.
The military had last year denied reports of a coup plot, insisting at the time that the detained officers were being investigated solely for acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations.
Military confirms officers linked to alleged coup plot against Tinubu
