The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) on Monday, confirmed that some of its officers plotted to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s government.
In a statement released to the press, Major General Samaila Uba, the Director of Defence Information, said that a thorough investigation had been conducted following the arrest of 16 officers in line with established military procedures and that 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”.
Recall that in October 2025, the DHQ disclosed the arrest of 16 officers for acts of indiscipline and breaches of military regulations. The officers, ranging from captain to brigadier general, were detained by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) after being accused of plotting to destabilize the government.
Although at the time, the DHQ denied the arrests were linked to a coup plot, there were rumours that the cancellation of the October 1 Independence Day parade was connected to the alleged coup attempt.
Read full statement…
“UPDATE ON DISCIPLINARY CASES INVOLVING SIXTEEN OFFICERS INVESTIGATED FOR INDISCIPLINE, BREACH OF SERVICE REGULATIONS
It would be recalled that 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 (AFN) 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.
Accordingly, those with cases to answer will be formally arraigned before appropriate military judicial panel 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.
SAMAILA UBA
Major General
Director, Defence Information
26 January 2026″
