By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Scores of wives and children of detained military officers protested at the National Assembly complex in Abuja on Wednesday. They demanded either immediate release or prompt court trial for their relatives. The protest followed over 160 days of detention linked to an alleged coup plot. Families said the government has not granted access to lawyers or relatives. They also insisted the authorities either disclose evidence or prosecute the officers in court. The demonstrators marched peacefully while holding placards and calling for justice.
Families Demand Justice Over Prolonged Detention
The protesters said the prolonged detention has caused emotional and financial hardship. Many families described life without their breadwinners as painful and unstable. They insisted the officers deserve a fair hearing in court.
One spouse, Nana Ibrahim, questioned the legality of the detention. She said authorities should either prosecute the officers or release them. She also claimed investigations have dragged on for more than six months.
According to her, families remain in the dark about official findings. She stressed that justice requires open trials and clear evidence presentation. She added that silence from authorities increases public suspicion.
Calls for Trial or Release Intensify
The families appealed directly to President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu. They urged immediate intervention to ensure constitutional rights are respected.
They also demanded access to legal representation for the detained officers. Furthermore, they insisted that continued detention without trial violates due process.
Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju and activist Omoyele Sowore supported the families during earlier engagements. They called for transparency and adherence to legal procedures.
Children Make Emotional Appeals
Children of the detained officers also joined the protest with emotional pleas. They said the absence of their fathers has deeply affected their daily lives.
A four-year-old girl, Fatima Yusuf, begged for her father’s safe return. She said her father used to help her learn and play.
An eleven-year-old girl also urged authorities to either release or charge the officers. She said families deserve clarity and justice.
Eight-year-old Halima Muhammad expressed fear for her father’s safety. She pleaded with the government not to harm detained officers.
Nine-year-old Ibrahim Bala said life at home feels lonely without his father. He added that his father previously guided him in school and behavior.
Background of the Alleged Coup Investigation
Authorities first announced the arrest of 16 officers on October 4, 2025. The Defence Headquarters said the officers violated military regulations.
Later reports suggested a wider alleged network involving senior officers. Investigators claimed the group planned surveillance of key national sites.
These locations reportedly included the Presidential Villa and military installations in Abuja. Authorities also mentioned airports as part of the alleged targets.
Officials alleged the planned operation date was October 25, 2025. However, no public trial has commenced as of now.
Growing Public Concern Over Due Process
Families argue that detention without trial undermines justice. They insist that evidence, if available, should be presented in open court.
They also maintain that secrecy fuels mistrust and public concern. Meanwhile, calls for accountability continue to increase across civic groups.
The protesters concluded their march peacefully at the National Assembly gate. They carried placards with messages demanding justice and fair hearing.
Conclusion
The ongoing detention of the military officers continues to spark public debate. Families insist on either immediate trial or unconditional release. They maintain that justice must follow due process under the law.
