The Nigerian military has convened a General Court-Martial to try more than 30 officers accused of involvement in an alleged plot to overthrow the administration of Bola Tinubu.
The proceedings began on Friday at the Guards Brigade Scorpion Mess in Asokoro, Abuja. The accused officers were transported to the venue at approximately 8:53 a.m. aboard a Marco Polo luxury bus, under tight security.
Access to the courtroom was restricted, with journalists barred from attending as the trial commenced behind closed doors. However, several legal practitioners were observed arriving earlier, suggesting that the defendants have secured legal representation.
The court-martial follows months of internal military investigations. In October 2025, around 16 serving officers were initially detained over allegations of indiscipline. Subsequent findings reportedly expanded the scope of the probe, linking some personnel to an alleged effort to undermine constitutional authority.
The ongoing proceedings represent the military’s internal disciplinary mechanism for serving officers. In a related development, civilian suspects and retired military personnel connected to the case are being prosecuted separately at the Federal High Court in Abuja on charges including treason and terrorism. All defendants have pleaded not guilty and remain in custody pending the determination of their bail applications.
Meanwhile the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has notified the public that it has inaugurated a General Court Martial to try 36 serving military personnel accused of breaching national security through alleged mutiny.
In a statement issued on Friday, Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, said the action follows an earlier DHQ communication dated January 26, 2026, addressing the alleged plot to overthrow the government.
He explained that the inauguration of the court martial underscores the Armed Forces’ commitment to discipline, accountability, and the protection of Nigeria’s constitutional order.
According to him, the proceedings will be conducted in line with established military legal frameworks, with strict adherence to due process and principles of fairness and impartiality.
“The Armed Forces remain resolute in upholding professionalism, discipline, and the rule of law, while ensuring that the rights of all personnel are respected and fair hearing is guaranteed,” the statement noted.
The DHQ added that the trial represents a significant step in maintaining internal order and safeguarding national integrity.
It would be recall that, on Wednesday, Six individuals accused of among others, plotting to take over government were on Wednesday arraigned before a Federal High Court in Abuja on a 13-count charge.
They are Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana (rtd), Captain (NN) Erasmus Ochegobia Victor (rtd), Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani.
The six pleaded not guilty when the charge was read to them. Gana was brought to court on a wheel chair on grounds of ill health and old age.
