The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has stated that the military officers arrested over an alleged coup attempt were fully aware of the consequences of their actions, while assuring that they will be granted a fair and transparent trial.
Musa made the remarks during an interview with Turkish news outlet, TRT World, where he also spoke about government arrangements to support the families of the accused officers.
A total of 16 officers, including a brigadier general and a colonel, were taken into custody in October 2025. At the time, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said their arrest was linked to acts of indiscipline and violations of military regulations.
However, on January 26, the DHQ confirmed that the officers were connected to a thwarted plot aimed at removing President Bola Tinubu from office.
The military revealed that the alleged conspiracy was uncovered in late September 2025 through coordinated intelligence efforts involving the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA).
According to the authorities, the plot allegedly involved plans to assassinate President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and other top government officials, as well as detain senior military commanders.
Musa emphasized that the accused officers would be given full access to legal representation of their choice and would be treated justly throughout the trial process.
“They must have weighed their actions carefully and considered the impact on their families before going down this path,” he said.
He stressed that, despite the seriousness of the allegations, due process would be strictly followed.
“But even so, the government is ensuring that their families are treated fairly,” Musa added. “Their wives and children are not being abandoned. Steps are being taken to ensure they are properly cared for.”
The defence minister further noted that the officers were conscious of the implications of their actions.
“The individuals involved already understand the consequences of what they did, and I believe they are prepared to face whatever comes,” he said.