- DHQ confirms officers plotted to overthrow President Tinubu
- Probe followed rumours after 2025 Independence Day parade cancellation
- Military says investigation followed due process
- Suspected officers to face military trial
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that a group of military officers were involved in a coup plot aimed at overthrowing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, months after the federal government initially dismissed reports linking the incident to national security concerns.
Speculation about an attempted coup first surfaced in October 2025 after the federal government abruptly cancelled the parade planned for Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day celebration on October 1.
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The sudden cancellation triggered widespread rumours, with reports suggesting it was connected to an alleged coup plot within the military. At the time, the Defence Headquarters firmly denied the claims, stating that the decision had nothing to do with any attempt to destabilise the government.
The DHQ also dismissed reports that some officers had been arrested in connection with a coup, insisting that any disciplinary actions taken were unrelated.
However, in a statement released on Monday, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Samaila Uba, confirmed that investigations had uncovered evidence implicating some personnel in a plot to overthrow the government.
According to him, the probe was carried out strictly in line with established military procedures and has now been concluded.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria wishes to inform the general public that investigations into the matter have been concluded and the report forwarded to the appropriate superior authority in line with extant regulations,” Uba said.
He explained that the investigation thoroughly examined the conduct of the officers involved and found actions that violated the ethics and professional standards expected of members of the Armed Forces.
“The findings have identified a number of officers with allegations of plotting to overthrow the government, which is inconsistent with the ethics, values and professional standards required of members of the AFN,” he added.
Uba disclosed that the affected officers would be formally arraigned before relevant military judicial panels to face trial under the Armed Forces Act and other service regulations.
He stressed that the process would ensure accountability while respecting fairness and due process.
