FG slams 13-count treason charge on coup plotters

The Federal Government, FG, has filed a 13-count charge before a Federal High Court in Abuja against individuals accused of plotting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu.

Those named in the charge include a retired major general, a retired naval captain, a serving police inspector, and three other suspects. The defendants are alleged to have engaged in acts of treason, terrorism, and attempts to wage war against the Nigerian state.

The charges mark a significant step in the government’s response to what security authorities have described as a coordinated attempt to undermine Nigeria’s constitutional order.

The alleged plot first came to public attention in October 2025, following the Federal Government’s sudden cancellation of the planned 65th Independence Day parade.

Although speculation initially linked the move to security concerns over a possible coup attempt, the Defense Headquarters, DHQ, dismissed the claims, insisting the cancellation was unrelated.

However, later developments suggested otherwise, as reports emerged that several military officers had been arrested in connection with an alleged plot to topple the government. It was reported that about 16 officers were detained in early October, while a few others were declared at large.

In January 2026, the DHQ confirmed that investigations had uncovered evidence of a coup conspiracy involving some military personnel.

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The Director of Defense Information stated that the findings, conducted in line with established military procedures, identified officers allegedly linked to the plot and assured that they would face 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 them access to the suspects.

The agitation intensified in April when family members staged a protest at the entrance of the National Assembly in Abuja, demanding a speedy trial and the right to see their detained relatives.

With the filing of formal charges at the Federal High Court, the case is now set to proceed through the judicial system, where the allegations of treason and related offences will be tested.

The development is expected to draw significant public attention as it raises broader concerns about national security, civil-military relations, and adherence to the rule of law.

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