KEY POINTS

• DHQ court martial officers over alleged indiscipline and coup plotting.
  
• Investigations found cases to answer under service regulations.
  
• Proceedings will follow the Armed Forces Act and due process.

Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters said a special investigative panel has concluded its probe into 16 military officers accused of acts of indiscipline, including allegations of plotting to overthrow the government, and will proceed with court-martial proceedings.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Monday, the military said the investigation identified officers with cases to answer and that the matter will move to a military court under the Armed Forces Act and other service regulations. The Defence Headquarters had announced the arrests in October 2025.

Major General Samaila Uba, director of defence information, said the inquiry reviewed all circumstances surrounding the conduct of the affected personnel and therefore found actions that violated service regulations and professional standards.

DHQ court martial officers after investigation ends

Furthermore, Uba said the panel completed its work in line with established military procedures and forwarded its report to the appropriate superior authority. He added that the allegations include conduct inconsistent with the ethics, values and standards expected of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

“The findings have identified a number of officers with allegations of plotting to overthrow the government,” he said, describing the acts as breaches of discipline and service rules.

The defence spokesman also stressed that the process remains an internal disciplinary measure aimed at preserving order, cohesion and operational effectiveness within the ranks. He also said the arraignment will follow due process and ensure fairness throughout the proceedings.

According to the military, the officers will face trial under existing laws governing the armed forces, with proceedings conducted through a court martial.

DHQ court martial officers amid coup sensitivities

Furthermore, sources familiar with the case said those in custody include Brigadier General Musa Sadiq; Colonels and lieutenant colonels from the Army; a lieutenant commander from the Navy; and a squadron leader from the Air Force. Many of the officers reportedly belong to the Infantry, Signals and Ordnance corps.

While the Defense Headquarters repeated its promise to professionalism, loyalty, and respect for constitutional authority. It also assured the public that the actions taken are only disciplinary and not politically motivated.

In Nigeria, where the military ruled for long periods of time following independence, accusations of organizing a coup are very serious. From 1966 to 1993, there were a number military coups in the country, but it eventually returned to civilian administration.

Military officials say the current proceedings reflect an effort to enforce discipline and deter conduct that could undermine stability, rather than a departure from constitutional order.