The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has formally acknowledged that its investigation into the conduct of several senior and mid-level officers uncovered allegations of a plot to overthrow the Nigerian government, marking a significant shift from its earlier position that the matter was purely internal indiscipline.
The confirmation came on Monday as the DHQ provided an official update on the fate of 16 officers who were arrested in October 2025 over what was initially described as acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations.
At the time of the arrests, the Defence Headquarters had announced that the affected officers were being investigated internally. However, reports by Sahara Reporters on October 18 revealed that the officers—ranging in rank from Captain to Brigadier General—were detained by the Defence Intelligence Agency over allegations that they held clandestine meetings aimed at toppling the government. The report further linked the sudden cancellation of Nigeria’s October 1 Independence Day parade to the alleged plot.
Responding to those reports in October, the then Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, dismissed suggestions of a coup attempt, insisting that the issue was being exaggerated to sow fear and mistrust among the public. He described the situation as a routine disciplinary matter within the armed forces.
“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.
However, speaking on Monday, the newly appointed Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, confirmed that the investigation had since been concluded and had produced far-reaching findings.
According to him, the probe—conducted in strict compliance with established military procedures—identified some of the officers as having serious cases to answer, including allegations related to plotting to overthrow the government. He disclosed that the final report has now been submitted to the appropriate superior authority for further action.
In a statement released by the DHQ, Uba said: “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.”
Major General Uba stated that officers found culpable would be subjected to formal military trials in line with existing laws and regulations. He noted that the next phase would involve arraignment before the appropriate military judicial panels.
He added, “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.”
The DHQ stressed that the actions being taken are aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the armed forces while reinforcing its commitment to constitutional governance, discipline, and the rule of law.
