The Nigerian Military on Friday inaugurated a general court-martial to try 36 personnel accused of involvement in an alleged coup plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration, with proceedings held under tight security in Abuja.

The trial, convened by the Defence Headquarters, took place at the Scorpion Mess in Asokoro, where access was restricted and journalists barred despite prior invitations.

Tight security as trial begins

Security operatives denied media access to the venue, while mobile phones were also prohibited during the session.

The accused officers were transported to the location in an Army Headquarters Garrison bus at about 8:53 a.m.

The closed-door proceedings reflect the sensitivity of the case as the military moves to address allegations involving personnel across ranks.

Full list of officers facing trial

Those arraigned include:

Brigadier General MA Sadiq; Colonel MA Ma’aji; Lieutenant Colonel IM Hussain; Lieutenant Colonel M Almakura; Lieutenant Colonel P Dangnap; Lieutenant Colonel S Bappah; Lieutenant Colonel AA Hayatu; Lieutenant Colonel SM Gana.

Others are Wing Commander IU Yusuf; Major MM Jiddah; Major H Yusuf; Major AD Dauda; Major JM Ganaks; Major D Yusuf; Major J Iliyasu; Major MA Usman; Major A Mohammed; Major II Idris.

Also listed are Squadron Leader SB Adamu; Squadron Leader NG Zuzu; Lieutenant Commander DB Abdullahi; Captain G Binuga; Captain I Bello; Captain AA Yusuf; Captain IU Zubair; Captain ML Muhammad; Lieutenant SS Felix.

The remaining personnel include Warrant Officer Nasiru Ibrahim; Staff Sergeant Abdul Abdullahi; Sergeant Alhassan Zakari; Sergeant Sanda Usman; Sergeant Abubakar Ibrahim; Corporal Momoh Audu; Corporal Aliyu Ibrahim; Lance Corporal Sambo Danladi; Lance Corporal Nasiru Yushau.

Military moves to enforce discipline

The Defence Headquarters is yet to release full details of the allegations, but the trial is expected to address multiple cases linked to the alleged plot.

The proceedings underline the military’s position on discipline and constitutional order, as developments continue to unfold in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.