FG Files 13 Charges Against Alleged Coup Plotters

The Federal Government of Nigeria has filed a 13-count charge against several individuals accused of plotting to overthrow President Tinubu. The charges, which include treason and terrorism, involve a retired major general, a retired naval captain, and a police inspector, among three other defendants.

This action follows the announcement by President Tinubu's government on October 1, 2025, to cancel the scheduled celebrations for the country's 65th independence anniversary, which was linked to the alleged coup attempt. The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) dismissed reports of a coup attempt but confirmed the arrest of 16 military officers in the first week of October 2025.

Two officers are reported to have run from the Defence Headquarters in January 2026. Samaila Uba, the DHQ director of defence information, stated that investigations were conducted in line with military procedures, leading to the arraignment of personnel involved in the coup plot before a military judicial panel in March.

Families of the detained officers have protested for access and a speedy trial.