The Federal Government has filed a 13-count charge against six suspects accused of plotting to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Among those listed in the charge at the Federal High Court in Abuja are a retired Major General, a retired Naval Captain, a serving Police Inspector and three other defendants. They are accused of treason, terrorism and attempting to wage war against the Nigerian state.
The case marks a major escalation in the government’s response to what security agencies have described as a coordinated attempt to undermine Nigeria’s constitutional order.
The alleged conspiracy first surfaced in October 2025 after the Federal Government abruptly cancelled the planned 65th Independence Day parade. At the time, speculation linked the decision to security threats and a possible coup attempt.
However, the Defence Headquarters initially denied any connection between the cancellation and coup fears, insisting the move was unrelated.
Subsequent reports later indicated that several military officers had been arrested over the alleged plot. About 16 officers were reportedly detained in early October, while others were declared wanted.
In January 2026, the Defence Headquarters confirmed that investigations had uncovered evidence of a coup conspiracy involving some military personnel.
According to military authorities, internal investigations identified officers allegedly connected to the plan and promised that those involved would face the appropriate legal process.
The arrests sparked reactions from families of the detained officers, who demanded transparency and due process. In March, relatives appealed to President Tinubu to allow an open trial and grant them access to the suspects.
The pressure intensified in April when family members staged a protest at the entrance of the National Assembly in Abuja, calling for a speedy trial and the right to see their detained relatives.
With formal charges now filed at the Federal High Court, the matter is set to proceed through the judicial system, where the allegations will be tested in open court.
The trial is expected to attract widespread attention, with broader implications for national security, civil-military relations and the rule of law in Nigeria.