The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has finally confirmed that there was a coup plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu.
In October 2025, the Federal Government announced the cancellation of the parade earlier scheduled to celebrate the country’s 65th independence anniversary on October 1.
Days later, reports swirled that the cancellation of the independence anniversary event was linked to an alleged coup attempt.
However, the defence headquarters dismissed the reports, insisting that the cancellation had no links to the alleged coup attempt.
The DHQ also said the arrest of some officers mentioned in the report was unrelated to any alleged coup plot.
On October 31, 16 military officers were arrested in the first week of the month over the alleged coup attempt, while two other officers were on the run.
‘They’ll be arraigned’
In a statement on Monday, Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, said investigations conducted in line with established military procedures found some personnel involved in a coup plot.
He said the officers would be arraigned before relevant military judicial panels.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) wishes to inform the general public that investigations into the matter have been concluded and the report forwarded to the appropriate superior authority in line with extant regulations,” the statement reads.
“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 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.
“Accordingly, those with cases to answer will be formally arraigned before an appropriate military judicial panel to face trial in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other applicable service regulations.
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“This ensures accountability while upholding the principles of fairness and due process.”
The defence spokesperson said the actions being taken against the affected officers are “purely disciplinary and part of ongoing institutional mechanisms to preserve order, discipline and operational effectiveness within the ranks”. Uba said the armed forces remain resolute in maintaining the “highest standards of professionalism, loyalty and respect for constitutional authority”.
