Nigeria has set up a military court to prosecute officers accused of involvement in a failed coup attempt, signaling a firm response to what officials say was a serious threat to the country’s democratic system.
According to the military, the court martial process began Friday, with judges expected to be formally sworn in as part of the proceedings. Defence spokesperson Major General Samaila Uba described the move as a procedural step leading up to the full establishment of the tribunal. Hearings are being held privately.
State media reported that more than 30 accused officers were taken to a military facility in Abuja, though authorities have not released their identities.
Shift from denial to action
Officials had initially dismissed reports of a coup attempt late last year. However, in January, the military confirmed it had foiled a plot to overthrow the government and pledged to bring those responsible to justice. If successful, the coup would have ended roughly 25 years of uninterrupted democratic rule in Nigeria.
Civilian case unfolds in parallel
Separately, six civilians appeared in court earlier this week, denying charges connected to the alleged conspiracy. One of the defendants is retired major general Mohammed Ibrahim Gana.
Prosecutors claim the group planned to wage war against the state and intimidate President Bola Tinubu. They are also accused of failing to report plans by Colonel Mohammed Alhassan Ma’aji, identified in local reports as the alleged mastermind.
Historical backdrop
Nigeria has experienced multiple military coups since gaining independence from the United Kingdom in 1960. Civilian rule was restored in 1999 and has remained in place since.
Following the emergence of the alleged plot, President Tinubu reshuffled the country’s senior military leadership, a move widely interpreted as an effort to reinforce stability within the armed forces.
