The 16 military officers recently accused of attempting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu are reportedly facing severe penalties, including imprisonment or the death sentence.
The officers, who have been in detention since October 2025, were found guilty by a military panel whose report has now been submitted to President Tinubu.
Retired generals Gen. Bashir Adewinbi (Rtd) and Major Bashir Galma (Rtd) explained to Daily Trust that under Nigerian military law, an attempted coup carries the death penalty in accordance with the Armed Forces Act.
The two officers stressed that only the President, as Commander-in-Chief, has the authority to temper justice with mercy; otherwise, those implicated in the plot face the full consequences of their actions.
Gen. Adewinbi said, “A coup is a criminal offence within the military, and penalties are clearly defined. The high command initially withheld confirmation to ensure the investigation was thorough. Now that the report confirms an attempted coup, all involved must face the consequences.
“There is no alternative—military coups attract the death penalty. History in Nigeria has repeatedly shown this. The President can exercise discretion over the exact punishment, but normally, the death sentence serves as a deterrent to anyone planning to undermine the democracy we enjoy today.
“The military’s duty is to protect democracy, not truncate it. Anyone involved in plotting a coup should be held accountable, alongside terrorists, bandits, and other criminals. These cases must be tried in special courts to ensure justice and reduce insecurity. The punishment must reflect the severity of the offence to discourage others from attempting similar acts.”
The officers’ fate now rests on the final decision of President Tinubu, who may choose to exercise clemency or allow the prescribed penalties to take effect.
