Military Begins Court Martial for 36 Soldiers Over Alleged Coup Plot Against Tinubu Government

The Nigerian military has commenced a general court-martial for 36 personnel allegedly involved in a plot to overthrow the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

The proceedings began on Friday at the Scorpion Mess in Asokoro, Abuja, under tight security, with the Defence Headquarters formally inaugurating the panel to try the accused soldiers.

Due to the sensitive nature of the case, the session was held behind closed doors. Journalists, including accredited defence correspondents who had been invited, were reportedly denied access to the venue.

Security operatives also restricted the use of mobile phones around the area as the accused personnel were brought in under military escort in a bus from the Army Headquarters Garrison at about 8:53 a.m.

The military action follows ongoing investigations into an alleged coup plot, with parallel criminal cases reportedly being pursued against civilians connected to the same matter at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Authorities have not released full details of the allegations, but the development marks one of the most significant internal military disciplinary proceedings in recent times, as the court-martial is expected to continue in the coming days, and proceedings remain classified due to national security concerns.

Written by Adeyemi Adewale