The Nigerian military on Friday inaugurated a General Court-Martial to try serving officers accused of involvement in an alleged coup plot, formally opening proceedings in a case that has drawn national attention.
The sitting, held at the Guards Brigade Scorpion Mess in Asokoro, Abuja, began under tight security, with the accused personnel transported to the venue early in the morning.
Witnesses said the officers arrived at about 8:53 a.m., while journalists were denied access as the trial commenced behind closed doors, in line with military procedures.
A number of civilian lawyers were also sighted at the venue, suggesting that the accused officers would be represented during the proceedings.
The case dates back to October 2025 when around 16 serving military personnel were initially arrested over alleged acts of indiscipline. However, further investigations by military authorities reportedly uncovered elements pointing to a more serious offence—an alleged attempt to topple the constitutional government.
This prompted the decision to subject the officers to trial before a General Court-Martial, the highest military tribunal.
Although the exact number of those standing trial was not officially disclosed, sources indicated that more than 30 officers were brought to the venue in a Marcopolo luxury bus, highlighting the scale of the case.
In a related development, the Federal Government has already initiated separate proceedings against civilian suspects and retired military personnel linked to the same alleged plot.
The suspects, including a retired Major General and a serving police officer, were arraigned before a Federal High Court in Abuja on charges bordering on treason and terrorism. They all pleaded not guilty.
The court subsequently ordered their remand in custody pending the hearing of their bail applications.
The ongoing trials reflect a dual-track legal approach, with serving military personnel facing prosecution under military law, while civilians and retired officers are being tried in civilian courts.
Details of the allegations and the specific roles of the accused officers have yet to be fully disclosed, as proceedings remain restricted.
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