Alleged coup: Nigerian military begins court-martial of accused officers

The Nigerian military has formally commenced a general court-martial for officers accused of involvement in an alleged coup plot, marking the start of internal judicial proceedings over the matter.

The trial opened on Friday at the Guards Brigade Scorpion Mess in Asokoro, Abuja, under tight security. The accused officers were escorted to the venue at about 8:53 a.m.

Journalists were barred from entering the courtroom as proceedings began behind closed doors. However, several lawyers were seen arriving earlier, indicating legal representation for the defendants.

Military sources say the case stems from the arrest of about 16 serving personnel in October 2025 over alleged acts of indiscipline. Investigations later expanded, with authorities concluding that some officers had a case to answer in relation to an alleged attempt to overthrow the government.

More than 30 accused personnel were reportedly transported to the venue in a bus ahead of the sitting.

In parallel, civilian suspects and retired military officers linked to the same alleged plot are facing prosecution before a Federal High Court in Abuja on charges including treason and terrorism. All have pleaded not guilty.

While serving officers are being tried under court-martial proceedings, civilians and former officers are being prosecuted through the civilian judicial system, reflecting a dual-track approach by authorities.

Details of the military trial remain limited as proceedings continue in private.