By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Nigeria faces intense scrutiny as authorities prosecute an alleged coup plot against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. On Friday in Abuja, 36 military personnel stood trial at a General Court-Martial over the plot. Security agencies accused them of planning to destabilise the government before Independence Day 2025. Meanwhile, civilian courts are handling related terrorism charges against other suspects. The dual trials have raised serious legal and constitutional questions.
Heavy Security as Military Trial Begins
Security forces transported the 36 defendants to the Scorpion Mess in Asokoro under tight control. An Army Headquarters Garrison bus and a Defence Intelligence Agency vehicle escorted them.
Authorities restricted access to the venue. Journalists and defence correspondents could not enter. Officials also banned mobile phones to prevent documentation.
The court session began at 1:46 p.m. The Attorney-General, Lateef Fagbemi, confirmed that charges were ready. He then asked the court to read them to the defendants.
Defendants Plead Not Guilty
Proceedings briefly paused when one defendant’s lawyer was absent. Another defence counsel raised language concerns, prompting the court to provide an interpreter.
When the session resumed, six defendants entered pleas. All of them denied the 13-count charges.
The prosecution requested their remand in DSS custody and asked for a speedy trial. Most defence lawyers did not object. However, one lawyer signalled plans to file for bail.
The judge granted accelerated hearing. He also ordered DSS remand with access to legal counsel. The court adjourned proceedings to April 27, 2026.
Parallel Trials Trigger Legal Debate
At the same time, the Federal High Court in Abuja is trying civilian suspects linked to the same plot.
This dual approach has triggered controversy. Human rights lawyer Femi Falana criticised the move. He urged the Attorney-General to consolidate all cases in one court.
Falana argued that treason and terrorism fall under the Federal High Court. He cited Section 251 of the Constitution.
He also questioned the use of military tribunals. According to him, courts-martial lack jurisdiction over constitutional offences.
Military Defends Court-Martial Process
In response, the Defence Headquarters defended its actions. The Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, assured fairness.
He stated that the military would follow due process. He added that the trial reflects discipline and accountability within the armed forces.
Inside the Alleged Coup Plot
Investigators say the suspects planned to strike before Nigeria’s Independence Day on October 1, 2025.
Authorities abruptly cancelled the 65th anniversary celebrations. At the time, they gave no clear reason. However, the military later confirmed an ongoing investigation into misconduct among officers.
Court documents now reveal deeper details. Prosecutors describe an elaborate plan to seize power.
They identified Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji as a key strategist. He allegedly built networks during his service in the Niger Delta.
Alleged Political and Financial Links
Documents also mention former minister Timipre Sylva. Although prosecutors have not indicted him, they listed him as “at large.”
Investigators suspect he played a financial role. However, his spokesperson denied the claims and described them as political.
Authorities claim that suspects distributed funds ranging from ₦2 million to ₦150 million. They allege the money supported the planned operation.
Plan to Target Presidential Villa
According to investigators, the conspirators aimed to storm the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
They reportedly relied on insider information from contacts, including a civilian electrician. The plan allegedly involved detaining top officials and targeting key figures.
Security agencies say intelligence operations uncovered the plot. Arrests followed days before Independence Day.
Civilians and Missing Persons Linked to Case
The investigation also involves civilians. Among them is cleric Sani Abdulkadir, whose earlier detention sparked outrage.
Although a court ordered his release, authorities later re-arrested him. Prosecutors claim he received $1,500 as “spiritual support” for the plot.
Meanwhile, concerns persist over Nollywood filmmaker Stanley Amandi. The Actors Guild of Nigeria says it cannot confirm his whereabouts.
Nigeria’s Democracy Faces a Test
The case has revived memories of past military coups. However, Nigeria has maintained civilian rule since 1999.
As trials continue, many Nigerians are watching closely. The outcome could shape public trust in democratic institutions.
The next hearing begins on April 27, 2026. Observers expect new revelations in what analysts describe as one of Nigeria’s most serious alleged coup attempts in decades.
