The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has officially confirmed that elements within the Nigerian military were involved in a plot to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, ending months of speculation surrounding the matter.
The confirmation came on Monday in a statement issued by Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, who disclosed that investigations into the alleged coup plot have been concluded and forwarded to appropriate military authorities.
According to the DHQ, findings from the investigation revealed that some officers acted in ways inconsistent with the values and professional standards of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria 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,” Uba said.
He explained that the inquiry was conducted in accordance with established military procedures and thoroughly examined 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,” the statement added.
Suspects to Be Arraigned
Uba confirmed that officers found to have cases to answer would be subjected to formal military judicial proceedings.
“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,” he said.
According to the DHQ spokesperson, the process is aimed at ensuring accountability while respecting fairness and due process.
Background to the Allegations
The confirmation follows events dating back to October 2025, when the federal government abruptly cancelled the parade scheduled for Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary on October 1.
At the time, reports linked the cancellation to an alleged coup attempt, claims that were initially denied by the Defence Headquarters. The military had insisted that the cancellation was unrelated to any plot and also dismissed reports of arrests linked to coup allegations.
However, later reports indicated that 16 military officers were arrested in the first week of October over the suspected plot, while two others reportedly went into hiding.
Disciplinary, Not Political — DHQ
Uba stressed that actions being taken against the affected officers are internal disciplinary measures rather than politically motivated actions.
“The actions are purely disciplinary and part of ongoing institutional mechanisms to preserve order, discipline and operational effectiveness within the ranks,” he said.
He further assured Nigerians that the armed forces remain committed to constitutional democracy.
“The Armed Forces remain resolute in maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, loyalty and respect for constitutional authority,” Uba added.
The confirmation marks the first official acknowledgment by the military that a coup plot against the Tinubu administration was uncovered and disrupted.
