Nigeria’s military hierarchy has taken a decisive disciplinary step after the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) released the full list of 16 officers indicted for allegedly plotting to overthrow the government of President Bola Tinubu.
The disclosure follows the conclusion of a Special Investigative Panel set up to examine allegations of serious misconduct within the Nigerian Armed Forces. According to the DHQ, the panel found that the officers had cases to answer and would now be subjected to a military court martial in line with existing laws and regulations.
Military Confirms Findings of Special Panel
The Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, confirmed the development on Monday, stating that the investigation had been completed and that disciplinary procedures would commence immediately.
Uba explained that the panel examined the circumstances surrounding the conduct of the officers and identified actions considered incompatible with the ethics, values, and professional standards expected of personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
He stressed that the process is strictly internal and disciplinary in nature, aimed at preserving military professionalism, cohesion, and operational effectiveness rather than generating political controversy.
Officers to Face Court Martial
According to the DHQ, the affected officers are drawn largely from the Infantry, Signals, and Ordnance Corps, as well as the Navy and Air Force. Their alleged involvement in activities deemed subversive prompted the decision to subject them to court martial proceedings, the highest internal judicial process within the military.
The DHQ reiterated that the accused officers are entitled to due process under military law and that the court martial will determine culpability based on evidence presented.
Full List of Indicted Officers
The following officers were named by the Defence Headquarters:
- Brigadier General Musa Abubakar Sadiq (Nasarawa, 44th Regular Course)
- Colonel M. A. Ma’aji (Niger, 47th Regular Course)
- Lieutenant Colonel S. Bappah (Bauchi, 56th Regular Course)
- Lieutenant Colonel A. A. Hayatu (Kaduna, 56th Regular Course)
- Lieutenant Colonel Dangnan (Plateau, 56th Regular Course)
- Lieutenant Colonel M. Almakura (Nasarawa, 56th Regular Course)
- Major A. J. Ibrahim (Gombe, 56th Regular Course)
- Major M. M. Jiddah (Katsina, 56th Regular Course)
- Major M. A. Usman (Federal Capital Territory, 60th Regular Course)
- Major D. Yusuf (Gombe, 59th Regular Course)
- Major I. Dauda (Jigawa, DSSC 38)
- Captain I. Bello (DSSC 43)
- Captain A. A. Yusuf
- Lieutenant S. S. Felix (DSSC)
- Lieutenant Commander D. B. Abdullahi (Nigerian Navy)
- Squadron Leader S. B. Adamu (Nigerian Air Force)
Security and Institutional Context
Nigeria has a long history of military involvement in politics, having experienced several coups between 1966 and 1999. Since the return to democratic rule, the Armed Forces have repeatedly emphasised their commitment to civilian supremacy and constitutional order.
Against this background, the alleged coup plot represents a sensitive issue for both national security and democratic stability. Analysts note that the military’s swift public disclosure and internal disciplinary action signal an effort to reassure Nigerians and international partners that there is zero tolerance for insubordination or political interference within the ranks.
Key Implications
- Civil–Military Relations: The case underscores the military’s stated commitment to democratic governance and civilian authority.
- Internal Discipline: The court martial process is expected to reinforce institutional discipline and deter similar conduct in the future.
- National Security Messaging: Public disclosure aims to counter rumours and prevent misinformation about instability within the Armed Forces.
- Rule of Law: The handling of the case will test the transparency and fairness of Nigeria’s military justice system.
What Happens Next
The 16 officers are expected to be formally arraigned before a military court martial, where evidence from the Special Investigative Panel will be examined. Outcomes could range from acquittal to dismissal from service or other penalties, depending on the findings.
For now, the Defence Headquarters maintains that the Armed Forces remain united, professional, and firmly committed to the constitutional order under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
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