Navy Officer Admits Mocking Tinubu Over Parade Cancellation

Bayawo Abdullahi, a 38-year-old Lieutenant Commander in the Nigerian Navy from Kogi State, is on trial for an alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu's administration. He admitted to sending a WhatsApp message mocking the President after the cancellation of the October 1 Independence Day parade, stating, “The man has cancelled the parade; the bagger is scared.” This message was sent to Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, the alleged leader of the coup plot.

The parade's cancellation followed the discovery of the coup plot, which led to the arrest of approximately 40 suspects, including military personnel and civilians. Abdullahi acknowledged that his message was misconduct and accepted responsibility, stating it threatened national security and was disloyal to the President.

He denied knowledge of the coup plot's execution date being linked to the parade. Abdullahi also expressed frustrations regarding his military career, citing setbacks in promotions due to disciplinary issues.