The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that investigations into alleged misconduct by some military officers uncovered claims of a plot to overthrow the government, with those indicted set to face military trial.
The DHQ made this known on Monday while providing an update on the arrest of 16 officers over acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations.
In October 2025, the military had announced the arrest of the officers, following reports that they were allegedly involved in secret meetings aimed at destabilising the government.
Sahara Reporters had reported on October 18 that the officers, ranging in rank from Captain to Brigadier General, were arrested by the Defence Intelligence Agency over the alleged plot, which was also linked to the cancellation of the October 1 Independence Day parade.
At the time, the then Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, dismissed the reports, saying they were intended to create tension and distrust among Nigerians, stressing that the issue was an internal disciplinary matter.
“The ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism are maintained within the ranks. An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings will be made public,” the statement said.
Providing a fresh update on Monday, the new Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said a comprehensive investigation had now been concluded in line with established military procedures.
He said the findings revealed that some of the officers had cases to answer over allegations of plotting to overthrow the government, adding that the investigation report had been forwarded to the appropriate superior authority.
“The Defence Headquarters issued a press statement in October 2025 regarding the arrest of sixteen officers over acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria wishes to inform the general public that investigations into the matter have been concluded and the report forwarded to appropriate superior authority in line with extant regulations.
“The comprehensive investigation process, conducted in accordance with established military procedures, has carefully examined all circumstances surrounding the conduct of the affected personnel.
“The findings have identified a number of the 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,” the statement read in part.
Uba disclosed that the officers indicted would be formally arraigned before relevant military judicial panels to face trial in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other applicable service regulations.
He emphasised that the process would ensure accountability while upholding fairness and due process, noting that the measures being taken were purely disciplinary.
“Accordingly, those with cases to answer will be formally arraigned before appropriate military judicial panels to face trial in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other applicable service regulations. This ensures accountability while upholding the principles of fairness and due process.
“The AFN reiterates that measures being taken are purely disciplinary and part of ongoing institutional mechanisms to preserve order, discipline, and operational effectiveness within the ranks.
“The Armed Forces remain resolute in maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, loyalty, and respect for constitutional authority,” Uba added.
