The Federal Government has filed a 13-count charge against several individuals accused of plotting to overthrow the administration of President Bola Tinubu. The case is before a Federal High Court in Abuja.
Those named in the charge include a retired major general, a retired naval captain, a serving police inspector, and three other suspects.
Government say the group was involved in activities aimed at destabilising the government.
The charges are serious. They include treason, terrorism, and waging war against the state. Under Nigerian law, these offences carry heavy penalties, including life imprisonment.
Security sources say investigations into the alleged plot had been ongoing for months. The development did not come as a surprise to insiders, following earlier signals from the military.
Recall that in October 2025, the Federal Government suddenly cancelled a planned parade to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary. At the time, the Defence Headquarters dismissed claims linking the decision to any coup threat.
However, reports later emerged suggesting that security agencies were already tracking a possible plot.
By the end of that same month, no fewer than 16 military officers were said to have been arrested in connection with the alleged conspiracy. The arrests were carried out quietly across different locations.
Two additional suspects linked to the case are still on the run, according to officials familiar with the matter.
In January 2026, the Defence Headquarters confirmed publicly that there had been a plan to unseat the current administration. The Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, said internal investigations had identified officers involved in the scheme. He noted that due process was being followed and that those implicated would face military and civil proceedings.
The issue later took a human angle. In March, wives and relatives of some detained suspects addressed a press conference in Abuja. They appealed directly to the president. They complained about lack of access to their loved ones and prolonged detention without trial.
By April, the protests escalated. Family members gathered at the National Assembly gates. They demanded a speedy trial and called for an end to what they described as unjust detention.
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