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Military court to try officers over alleged coup attempt
The Nigerian armed forces have confirmed that a group of officers will stand trial before a military judicial panel for allegedly plotting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu's government last year. The announcement follows an investigation into arrests made in October.
Arrests and initial denials
Sixteen officers were detained in October 2025 on charges of "acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations." At the time, the military dismissed speculation of a coup attempt, but authorities later acknowledged the gravity of the allegations after a probe.
The armed forces stated that attempting to unseat an elected government violates "the ethics, values, and professional standards" of the military.
Uncertainty over number of defendants
While the exact number of officers facing trial remains unclear, military officials emphasized that the proceedings would adhere to "principles of fairness and due process." The case underscores the sensitivity of coup allegations in Nigeria, a country with a history of military interventions in politics.
Historical context and regional tensions
Nigeria experienced multiple coups between 1966 and 1993 but has maintained uninterrupted civilian rule since 1999. The armed forces have repeatedly reaffirmed their loyalty to democratic governance, particularly amid rising instability in West Africa.
Recent years have seen a resurgence of military takeovers in the region, with governments in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea overthrown since 2020. Guinea's return to civilian rule-with junta leader Mamadi Doumbouya elected president-has done little to ease concerns among neighboring states, including Nigeria, which positions itself as a stabilizing force within the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas).
Pressures on Nigeria's military
The armed forces are currently stretched thin, combating jihadist insurgencies in the northeast, criminal gangs in the northwest, and communal violence in central states. Analysts warn that operational strains, resource shortages, and public scrutiny may be testing discipline within the ranks.
The trial of the accused officers comes at a time of heightened vigilance, both domestically and across the region, as governments seek to deter any signs of military dissent.
