The Nigerian military is facing growing public scrutiny over plans to court-martial a group of officers accused of involvement in an alleged coup plot, amid concerns raised by families about secrecy, fairness, and access to legal defence.
According to sources familiar with the development, the trial is expected to begin soon, with the accused personnel reportedly transferred to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) Garrison to take jurisdiction over the proceedings.
Relatives of the detained officers say they have remained completely in the dark since the arrests were made nearly seven months ago, claiming there has been no official communication from military authorities. They also allege that access to the detainees and their lawyers has been repeatedly blocked.
Family members argue that the process lacks transparency and insist that the accused should be tried in a civilian court where proceedings would be open to the public and legal representation would not be restricted.
They further express concern that the military institution leading the investigation is also overseeing the trial process, raising questions about impartiality and due process.
Reports also indicate rising tension over plans to conduct the hearings in a controlled or staggered manner, which critics say could limit transparency, restrict family access, and influence outcomes behind closed doors.
Public concern has continued to grow since the officers were first arrested in October 2025 over alleged breaches of military discipline. Authorities later claimed the investigation uncovered a wider conspiracy aimed at destabilising the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Among those still in custody are officers across various ranks, including senior and junior personnel, with their specific roles in the alleged plot not fully disclosed.
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has previously stated that he was also allegedly targeted in the reported coup plan, claiming he was marked for arrest and possible attack.
However, critics say inconsistencies in official accounts and limited disclosure of evidence have further fuelled doubts about the case.
Relatives of the detainees have staged protests demanding either a transparent court process or the release of their loved ones, insisting that the continued detention without open trial violates their constitutional rights.
