Falana: Coup Plotters Must Face Civilian Courts, Not Court-Martial

Nigerian human rights lawyer Falana emphasized that military officials accused of plotting a coup against President Bola Tinubu cannot be subjected to court-martial proceedings. He insisted that such cases should be tried in civilian courts, not military tribunals, as treason is a civilian offense.

Falana warned that trying coup suspects in military courts could undermine constitutional supremacy and weaken public confidence in the democratic process. He urged the federal government to strictly adhere to constitutional procedures and prosecute alleged coup plotters in civilian courts to uphold the rule of law and deter future attempts.

Falana's stance highlights the importance of maintaining human rights and legal standards in addressing serious allegations within Nigeria's democratic system.