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Six accused of plotting to overthrow Nigerian president
Nigerian authorities have formally charged six individuals, including a retired major general and a serving police inspector, with treason for allegedly attempting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu last year. The case was filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where the defendants are scheduled to appear before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on Wednesday.
Key figures named in the case
A seventh suspect, former governor and ex-oil minister Timipre Sylva, was also implicated in the charges but remains at large. Court documents indicate he is wanted in connection with the alleged conspiracy.
Sylva, who served as petroleum minister from 2019 to 2023 under former President Muhammadu Buhari and previously governed the oil-rich Bayelsa state, denied involvement in the plot after his home was searched by investigators in October 2025. An arrest warrant was later issued in a separate corruption case, with his spokesperson claiming he was in the UK for medical treatment and dismissing the allegations as politically motivated.
Timeline of events and government response
Rumors of a coup first emerged in October 2025 when the government abruptly canceled a military parade marking Nigeria's 65th Independence Anniversary, citing unspecified security threats. While the military initially denied any coup attempt, it later announced in January that 16 officers would face trial in a military court for allegedly attempting to oust Tinubu.
It remains unclear whether the current charges, which also include terrorism and money laundering, are related to the military prosecutions or represent a separate legal action.
Allegations and legal implications
The charge sheet accuses the six defendants of conspiring to "levy war against the state" with the intent to intimidate the president. The alleged ringleader, Col Mohammed Alhassan Ma'aji, was arrested alongside other accomplices.
Prosecutors claim the defendants had prior knowledge of Ma'aji's "treasonable act" but failed to report it to authorities. Additional charges include suppression of intelligence and money laundering, with allegations that funds were exchanged to finance terrorism.
Under Nigerian law, treason is a capital offense, punishable by severe penalties, including life imprisonment. The country has maintained uninterrupted civilian rule since 1999, with the military repeatedly affirming its loyalty to democratic governance.
Broader context and reactions
The case has drawn attention to Nigeria's political stability, particularly amid ongoing economic and security challenges. The military has consistently reaffirmed its commitment to civilian authority, though recent events have fueled speculation about internal divisions.
No statements have been issued by the defendants regarding the allegations. The court proceedings are expected to shed further light on the details of the alleged plot.
