Nigerian Military Officers Face Death Penalty for Alleged Coup Plot

Nigerian military officers involved in an attempted coup in October 2025 are facing the death penalty as per military law. The Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) detained and investigated several officers, including those ranging from the rank of captain to brigadier general, for allegedly plotting to overthrow the government of Bola Tinubu.

A panel was set up to probe the arrests, and the findings were submitted to the appropriate authorities. The military high command emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline and adherence to professional standards within the Armed Forces.

The history of coup attempts in Nigeria, such as those in 1985 and 1995, where individuals were convicted and sentenced to death, serves as a backdrop to the seriousness of such actions. The military's role in protecting democracy and combating terrorism and insecurity was highlighted, with a call for strict punishment for coup plotters to deter future attempts.