DHQ confirms plot to overthrow Tinubu, says officers to face trial

The Defence Headquarters has confirmed that some military officers were involved in a plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu, reversing its earlier position that no such attempt existed.

In a statement issued on Monday, Samaila Uba, director of defence information, said investigations carried out in line with established military procedures uncovered the involvement of some personnel in a coup plot. He added that those found culpable would be arraigned before appropriate military judicial panels.

According to Uba, the investigation has been concluded and the report forwarded to the relevant superior authorities in line with existing regulations.

“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,” the statement said.

He explained that the comprehensive investigation examined all circumstances surrounding the conduct of the affected personnel and identified a number of officers alleged to have plotted to overthrow the government, an action he described as inconsistent with the ethics, values, and professional standards of the armed forces.

Uba noted that officers with cases to answer would be formally tried in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other applicable service regulations, stressing that the process would ensure accountability while upholding fairness and due process.

The confirmation follows months of speculation surrounding an alleged coup attempt. In October 2025, the federal government cancelled the parade scheduled to mark Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary on October 1. Shortly after, reports emerged linking the cancellation to a suspected coup plot.

At the time, the defence headquarters dismissed the reports, insisting that the cancellation was not connected to any coup attempt and that the arrest of some officers mentioned in the reports was unrelated. However, TheCable later reported that 16 military officers were arrested in the first week of October over the alleged plot, while two others were said to be on the run.

Uba said the actions being taken against the affected officers are purely disciplinary and part of institutional mechanisms to preserve order, discipline, and operational effectiveness within the armed forces. He added that the military remains committed to the highest standards of professionalism, loyalty, and respect for constitutional authority.