Nigerian Military Sets Up Court Martial for Officers Over Alleged Coup Plot Against Tinubu

By George Omagbemi Sylvester

The Nigerian military has set up a court martial panel to try a number of officers accused of involvement in an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government.

The development was reported on April 22, 2026, amid ongoing investigations into claims of a planned coup involving serving and retired security personnel.

According to military sources, the officers are expected to face trial before a military judicial panel following conclusions from internal investigations into alleged breaches of service ethics, discipline, and national security regulations.

The Defence Headquarters had earlier confirmed the arrest of several officers in connection with the alleged plot, describing the matter as a serious violation of military conduct and national security laws.

Reports indicate that those affected include a mix of senior military officers and other security personnel, with investigations also extending to alleged civilian collaborators.

The military says the court martial process is aimed at ensuring discipline within the armed forces while safeguarding national stability, especially as Nigeria continues to face multiple security challenges across different regions.

This development follows earlier reports of large-scale arrests linked to alleged coup planning, with security agencies tightening internal monitoring within the armed forces.

The move underscores the military’s attempt to reinforce internal discipline and deter any form of unconstitutional power grab, at a time when West Africa has witnessed rising political instability and coup attempts in parts of the region.