The Federal Government has signalled a firm but measured approach to the handling of military personnel recently detained over an alleged plot to undermine constitutional order, insisting that due process will be followed while accountability is enforced.
Speaking during a televised interview, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), said the officers involved were fully conscious of the implications of their actions, noting that the military justice system is designed to deal decisively with breaches of discipline and professional conduct.
According to the minister, the suspects will be subjected to court-martial proceedings in line with established military laws, with assurances that the trials will be transparent and that the accused will be granted full access to legal representation. He stressed that the Armed Forces would not compromise its core values, regardless of the status or rank of those involved.
Musa also addressed concerns about the impact of the arrests on the families of the detained officers, stating that the government has taken steps to ensure that spouses and children are not unfairly affected while investigations and trials continue. He explained that welfare support mechanisms have been activated to protect innocent dependants during the legal process.
The alleged plot, which first came to public attention following arrests made in October 2025, was officially confirmed by the Defence Headquarters in January 2026. At the time, military authorities said the suspects were being investigated for serious acts of indiscipline and violations of service regulations.
Following an extensive inquiry by a special investigative panel, a report was submitted to President Bola Tinubu, identifying officers with cases to answer. The findings reportedly highlighted conduct that fell short of the ethical and professional standards required of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Military authorities have since confirmed that those indicted will appear before appropriate military judicial panels, reinforcing the government’s position that while national security and discipline remain paramount, the rights of the accused and the welfare of their families will be safeguarded throughout the process.
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