Defence headquarters confirm coup plot aimed at overthrowing Tinubu

The Defence Headquarters, DHQ, has confirmed that a coup plot aimed at overthrowing President Bola Tinubu was uncovered.

In a statement released on Monday, Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, said investigations carried out under standard military procedures revealed that some personnel were involved in the alleged coup plot.

He stated that the officers implicated would be brought before military judicial panels to face charges.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria, AFN, wishes to inform the general public that investigations into the matter have been concluded and the report forwarded to the appropriate superior authority in line with extant regulations,” the statement reads.

“The comprehensive investigation process, conducted in accordance with established military procedures, has carefully examined all circumstances surrounding the conduct of the affected personnel.

“The findings have identified a number of officers with allegations of plotting to overthrow the government, which is inconsistent with the ethics, values and professional standards required of members of the AFN.

“Accordingly, those with cases to answer will be formally arraigned before an appropriate military judicial panel to face trial in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other applicable service regulations.

“This ensures accountability while upholding the principles of fairness and due process.”

Uba added that the actions against the implicated officers are disciplinary and part of institutional mechanisms to maintain order, discipline, and operational readiness within the military ranks.

He stressed that the armed forces remain committed to upholding professionalism, loyalty, and respect for constitutional authority.

In October 2025, the federal government announced the cancellation of the parade that was planned to mark Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary on October 1.

Days later, reports suggested that the cancellation was connected to an alleged coup attempt. The Defence Headquarters, however, dismissed these claims, stating that the cancellation was unrelated to any coup plot.

It also clarified that the arrest of some officers named in the reports was not linked to any coup attempt.

Sixteen military officers were arrested in the first week of the month in connection with the alleged coup attempt, while two others remain at large.