A group of Nigerian military officers is expected to face a court martial after authorities accused them of plotting to overthrow the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to a statement from the Nigerian Armed Forces, 16 officers were arrested in October 2025 over what were described as acts of indiscipline and violations of military service regulations.
At the time of their arrest, the military dismissed widespread speculation about a coup attempt. However, following internal investigations, authorities have now confirmed that some of the officers will be arraigned before a military judicial panel.
Nigeria’s history of military intervention in governance makes allegations of coup-plotting a highly sensitive matter. The country experienced a series of military takeovers between 1966 and 1993, a period that continues to shape public reaction to any claims of unrest within the armed forces.
Military officials have not disclosed how many of the 16 officers will eventually stand trial, but they insist the process will be guided by fairness, accountability, and due process.
In its statement, the armed forces said any attempt to remove an elected government runs contrary to the ethics, values and professional standards of the military.
In recent years, concerns about insecurity, economic pressures and public dissatisfaction have occasionally fuelled rumours of dissent within the ranks—claims the military has consistently denied.
Nigeria has enjoyed uninterrupted civilian rule since 1999, with the armed forces repeatedly affirming their loyalty to democratic governance and civilian authority.
The development comes against the backdrop of renewed military takeovers across West Africa. Countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and Guinea have all witnessed coups since the start of the decade, heightening regional concerns. Guinea, however, has recently returned to civilian rule after junta leader Mamadi Doumbouya was elected president.
These events have placed governments in the region, including Nigeria, on high alert. Nigeria has traditionally played a leading stabilising role within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
At home, the Nigerian military continues to operate under significant strain, battling jihadist insurgents in the north-east while also confronting banditry, criminal networks and communal violence in other parts of the country.
Security analysts say the combination of heavy operational demands, limited resources and public scrutiny has sharpened attention on discipline and professionalism within the armed forces.
Credit: BBC
