The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced the conclusion of its investigation into alleged misconduct by a group of military officers, including claims that some plotted to overthrow the government of President Bola Tinubu.
In a statement issued on Monday, January 26, 2026, Major General Samaila Uba, the Director of Defence Information, confirmed that the probe — which centred on 16 officers arrested in October 2025 — has been completed and the report forwarded to the appropriate superior authority in line with established military procedures and regulations.
Major General Uba said the investigation found that several of the detained officers have cases to answer, including actions described as inconsistent with the ethics, values and professional standards expected of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
Those identified with sufficient evidence against them are to be formally arraigned before appropriate military judicial panels, where they will face trial under the Armed Forces Act and applicable service regulations. The military stressed that the move is part of internal measures aimed at preserving discipline, cohesion and operational effectiveness within the armed forces.
President Tinubu, according to security sources, has expressed confidence in the armed forces to handle the matter in accordance with the law.
The announcement follows media reports last year linking the cancellation of Nigeria’s October 1 independence parade to an alleged coup plot involving the detained officers.
At the time, the DHQ, which initially denied an alleged coup plot, described earlier reports as internal disciplinary issues.
However, Monday’s update marks the first formal move toward prosecution.
The developments come amid public interest and calls from civil society for transparency, fairness, and respect for the rights of the accused.
