An alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu has taken a legal turn, with the Federal Government filing a 13-count charge at 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. They are accused of offences ranging from treason and terrorism to conspiracy to wage war against the Nigerian state.
The move marks a significant escalation in the government’s response to what security agencies describe as a coordinated attempt to undermine Nigeria’s constitutional order.
The alleged plot first surfaced in October 2025, after the Federal Government abruptly cancelled the planned 65th Independence Day parade. At the time, the Defence Headquarters dismissed speculation linking the decision to security concerns, insisting it was not connected to any coup attempt.
However, subsequent developments suggested otherwise, with reports indicating that several military officers were arrested over an alleged plan to overthrow the government. About 16 officers were said to have been detained in early October, while others were declared at large.
By January 2026, the Defence Headquarters confirmed that investigations had uncovered evidence of a coup conspiracy involving some military personnel.
The Director of Defence Information stated that the investigation, conducted in line with established military procedures, identified officers allegedly linked to the plot, adding that they would be subjected to appropriate judicial processes.
The arrests triggered reactions from families of the detained officers, who have continued to demand transparency and due process. In March, relatives appealed to President Tinubu to allow an open trial and grant access to the suspects.
The agitation intensified in April when family members staged a protest at the entrance of the National Assembly in Abuja, calling for a speedy trial and access to their detained relatives.
With formal charges now filed, the case will proceed through the Federal High Court, where the allegations of treason and related offences will be examined.
The development is expected to draw significant public attention, raising broader questions about national security, civil-military relations, and adherence to the rule of law.
