Defence Headquarters confirms coup attempt, says indicted officers to face trial
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters said it has concluded investigations into alleged misconduct by some officers, identifying a number of officers with allegations of plotting to overthrow the government in the process.
The DHQ had in October announced the arrest of 16 officers over acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations, with rumours and reports of secret meetings held by the said officers to topple the government flying across the new media space at the time.
The DHQ had however dispelled the rumours, stating that the arrest of the officers was consistent with routine internal processes of the army aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism within the ranks.
The new Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, giving an update on Monday January 26 regarding the investigation, disclosed that a comprehensive investigation had been conducted, with some officers having to stand trial over coup allegations.
The statement read in part: “The Defence Headquarters issued a press statement in October 2025 regarding the arrest of sixteen officers over acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria wishes to inform the general public that investigations into the matter have been concluded and the report forwarded to appropriate superior authority in line with extant regulations.
“The comprehensive investigation process, conducted in accordance with established military procedures, has carefully examined all circumstances surrounding the conduct of the affected personnel.
“The findings have identified a number of the officers with allegations of plotting to overthrow the government, which is inconsistent with the ethics, values and professional standards required of members of the AFN.”
The statement added that those indicted would be arraigned before military judicial panels, noting that the measures being taken were disciplinary in nature, to preserve order and operational effectiveness.
“Accordingly, those with cases to answer will be formally arraigned before appropriate military judicial panels to face trial in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other applicable service regulations. This ensures accountability while upholding the principles of fairness and due process.
“The AFN reiterates that measures being taken are purely disciplinary and part of ongoing institutional mechanisms to preserve order, discipline, and operational effectiveness within the ranks.
“The Armed Forces remain resolute in maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, loyalty, and respect for constitutional authority,” the statement said.
