…the DHQ said the actions attributed to the officers violated established service regulations
ABUJA, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced that the Special Investigative Panel established to probe 16 Armed Forces officers accused of indiscipline and alleged coup plotting has concluded its work, and the officers will be tried by a military court martial.
In a statement issued yesterday, the DHQ said the actions attributed to the officers violated established service regulations. It disclosed that investigations had been completed in line with existing military procedures and that the panel’s report had been submitted to the appropriate superior authority.
According to the DHQ, the investigation was comprehensive and thoroughly examined all circumstances surrounding the conduct of the affected personnel. The findings reportedly implicated several officers in allegations of plotting to overthrow the government, acts described as inconsistent with the ethics, values, and professional standards expected of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
The Defence spokesman stressed that the steps being taken are strictly disciplinary and form part of internal mechanisms aimed at maintaining discipline, unity, and operational effectiveness within the military. He added that the officers would be arraigned under the Armed Forces Act and other relevant service regulations to ensure fairness and due process.
Reaffirming the AFN’s commitment to professionalism, loyalty, and respect for constitutional authority, the spokesman assured the public that due process would be strictly observed throughout the proceedings.
Sources revealed that the officers in custody include Brigadier General Musa Sadiq (Nasarawa, 44th Regular Course); Colonel M. Ma’aji (Niger, 47th Course); Lieutenant Colonels S. Bappah (Bauchi), A. Hayatu (Kaduna), Dangnan (Plateau), and M. Almakura (Nasarawa), all of the 56th Course.
Others listed are Major A. Ibrahim (Gombe, 56th Course); Major M. Jiddah (Katsina, 56th Course); Major M.A. Usman (FCT, 60th Course); Major D. Yusuf (Gombe, 59th Course); Major I. Dauda (Jigawa, DSSC 38); Captain I. Bello (DSSC 43); Captain A. Yusuf; and Lieutenant S. Felix (DSSC). Also involved are Lieutenant Commander D.B. Abdullahi of the Navy and Squadron Leader S. Adamu of the Air Force.
Most of the officers are said to belong to the Infantry, Signals, and Ordnance Corps.
It will be recalled that the DHQ announced the arrest of the officers in October 2025, noting at the time that investigations had been carried out in accordance with established military procedures and extant regulations.
Nigeria’s history of military intervention in politics marked by several coups between 1966 and 1993 has made allegations of coup plotting particularly sensitive.
