By Abdussamad Yahya Sufi
The Nigerian Armed Forces have confirmed that some of its officers were involved in a plot to overthrow the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The confirmation came after months of public denial by military authorities, following nationwide rumours that a coup attempt had been uncovered last year.
In a statement issued by the Defence Headquarters on Monday, the military said investigations into officers arrested in October 2025 had been concluded. The probe found that some personnel engaged in acts capable of eroding Nigeria’s constitutional order.
According to the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the findings have been forwarded to appropriate military authorities. Officers found culpable will be subjected to court-martial in line with the Armed Forces Act.
The affected officers were earlier detained for alleged breaches of service rules, with the military at the time insisting the arrests had no connection to any coup plan. However, the unexpected cancellation of the 2025 Independence Day parade fueled speculation of an attempted takeover, which authorities dismissed on multiple occasions.
Security analysts say the military’s admission shows a move toward transparency and an effort to assure Nigerians of its loyalty to democratic governance.
The Defence Headquarters reiterated that the Armed Forces stay committed to civilian rule and will continue to address internal misconduct through lawful and professional channels.
Trials of the implicated officers are expected to begin in the coming weeks.
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