By Emmanuel Nduka Obisue
The Nigerian military has announced that 16 officers are set to face trial following the conclusion of investigations into an alleged failed coup plot aimed at overthrowing President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) disclosed on Monday that the probe into what it described as acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations by the detained officers has been completed, with findings now forwarded to the appropriate superior military authorities.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the military confirmed that some of the officers were found to have questions to answer over allegations bordering on attempts to undermine the constitutionally elected government.
“The investigation identified a number of officers with allegations of plotting to overthrow the government, an act which is inconsistent with the ethics, values, and professional standards expected of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” Uba said.
He explained that the investigation was carried out in line with established military procedures and involved a comprehensive review of the circumstances surrounding the conduct of the affected personnel.
According to the AFN, officers found culpable will be formally arraigned before appropriate military judicial panels and prosecuted in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other relevant service regulations.
The military emphasized that the ongoing process is strictly an internal disciplinary measure aimed at safeguarding order, discipline, and operational effectiveness within its ranks, stressing that it remains firmly loyal to the Constitution and the President as Commander-in-Chief.
The AFN further reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, constitutional authority, and the preservation of democratic governance in Nigeria.
The alleged coup plot came to public attention last year, following reports that the military had quietly detained several officers over suspicions of disloyalty and actions deemed inimical to national security. While initial details were withheld, sources indicated that the arrests were linked to intelligence suggesting attempts by some personnel to undermine the constitutional order and destabilize the administration of President Tinubu.
The development triggered widespread public interest and speculation, prompting the Armed Forces of Nigeria to clarify that the matter was being handled internally through established disciplinary and judicial processes. The military has since maintained that the investigation was not politically motivated but rooted in the need to enforce discipline, uphold professionalism, and preserve the long-standing tradition of military subordination to civilian authority.
