Nigerian Military Trials 36 Personnel for Coup Plot

The Nigerian military began a closed-door trial on January 26, 2026, for 36 military personnel accused of attempting to overthrow the democratic government led by President Bola Tinubu. The trial, convened at the General Court Martial in Abuja, was conducted under tight security, with journalists barred from the venue.

This action follows the federal government's filing of 13 charges against the accused, which includes retired Major General and retired Naval Captain. Major General Samaila Uba, the Director of Defence Information, stated that the trial adheres to strict due process and aims to uphold the highest standards of fairness and justice.

The military had previously announced the arrest of 16 senior officers in October 2025, citing indiscipline and a perceived failure to promote career advancement as contributing factors to the unrest. The military's commitment to discipline and accountability was emphasized, with assurances that the trial would follow established legal frameworks.