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🇳🇬 Nigeria /Conflict & Security

Alleged coup: DHQ inaugurates court martial for 36 personnel

From The Punch · (Apr 24) English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • The Defence Headquarters has inaugurated a General Court Martial to try 36 military personnel accused of mutiny and attempting to overthrow the government.
  • The trial follows an earlier announcement and underscores the Armed Forces' commitment to discipline and accountability.
  • This action is separate from a civil trial where six individuals, including retired officers, were arraigned for a related alleged coup plot.

The Defence Headquarters has taken decisive action by inaugurating a General Court Martial to try 36 serving military personnel. These individuals stand accused of mutiny and an attempt to overthrow the government, a grave offense that strikes at the heart of national security and stability. This move, announced on April 24, 2026, follows up on a previous statement made on January 26, 2026, signaling a consistent commitment by the Armed Forces to uphold discipline and accountability.

The Defence Headquarters has today 24 April 2026, inaugurated a General Court Martial to try 36 serving military personnel over alleged mutiny, aimed at overthrowing the government of the day.

— Major General Samaila UbaAnnouncing the inauguration of the court martial.

Major General Samaila Uba, the Director of Defence Information, emphasized that the proceedings will adhere strictly to due process, ensuring fairness and impartiality. This assurance is crucial in maintaining public trust and demonstrating the military's adherence to legal frameworks. The inauguration of this court martial is a significant step in reinforcing the Armed Forces' dedication to safeguarding national integrity and the constitutional authority of the government.

This is in furtherance of the DHQ’s statement issued on 26 January 2026 which dwelled on the subject.

— Major General Samaila UbaConnecting the current action to previous statements regarding the alleged coup plot.

This development is particularly noteworthy given the recent confirmation of arrests of 16 officers in October 2025 for alleged indiscipline and breaches of service regulations linked to a suspected coup plot. The military stated that investigations were concluded, and those indicted would face trial. The ongoing efforts to address these threats highlight the military's vigilance and its resolve to maintain order within its ranks and protect the nation from internal subversion. The separate civil trial of six individuals, including retired senior military officers, for a related alleged coup plot further underscores the seriousness of these threats.

The inauguration marks a significant step in reinforcing discipline, accountability and the commitment of the Armed Forces to safeguarding national integrity and constituted authority.

— Major General Samaila UbaExplaining the significance of the court martial.
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Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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