KEY POINTS
- Air Chief condemns alleged coup plot in Nigeria.
- Air Chief warns perpetrators will face prosecution.
- Air Chief stresses neutrality before 2027 elections.
Nigeria’s Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said any member of the Armed Forces found plotting to overthrow the country’s democratic government would face prosecution, as authorities seek to reinforce discipline ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking in Abuja during a strategic session with Air Officers Commanding and unit heads to mark his first 100 days in office, Aneke described reports of an alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu’s administration as “shameful” and “reprehensible.”
The air chief said the Nigerian Air Force remains firmly committed to constitutional order and civilian authority.
Air Chief condemns alleged coup plot
“I unequivocally condemn recent revelations that plans were made by certain individuals to subvert democracy and violently take over the government,” Aneke said. “Any perpetrators will face the full wrath of the law.”
Security forces arrested more than 40 military personnel and civilians last year over an alleged October coup attempt, according to reports. Families of some suspects have since appealed for leniency and due process.
Aneke reminded commanders of their responsibility to preserve cohesion and professionalism within the ranks, particularly as political activity intensifies ahead of the next election cycle. He stressed that the armed forces must support civil authorities without partisanship.
Air Chief links security to regional risks
Reflecting on broader security trends, Aneke said Nigeria faces a more complex global environment marked by renewed geopolitical competition and instability in the Sahel. He cited developments in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger as warning signs, noting the spread of jihadist groups linked to Islamic State and al-Qaeda.
He described reported expansion of Islamic State West Africa Province activity into Kwara State as a concern requiring decisive action.
Domestically, the air chief acknowledged modest gains, including reduced pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta and improved security conditions in parts of the South-East following joint operations. He said coordinated efforts had helped lift crude oil output to about 2.2 million barrels per day, though criminal activity persists.
Aneke thanked President Tinubu for his support and pledged that the Nigerian Air Force would continue to deliver air power in coordination with ground forces to safeguard territorial integrity.
“As we deliberate here, I expect practical decisions and measurable improvements,” he said, underscoring the military’s duty to protect national security objectives.
