The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has officially inaugurated a General Court-Martial to try 36 serving military personnel accused of involvement in an alleged plot to overthrow the Federal Government.
The court-martial was inaugurated on Friday at the Scorpion Officers Mess in Asokoro, Abuja, under tight security, marking the beginning of formal military judicial proceedings into the matter.
Accredited journalists were initially invited but later denied access to the venue, while mobile phones were restricted as the 36 accused personnel were brought in under military escort.
The proceedings are being conducted behind closed doors as part of internal military disciplinary processes.
According to Defence Headquarters, the case dates back to October 2025, when about 16 officers were first arrested over alleged acts of indiscipline and breach of service regulations.
The military later confirmed that investigations uncovered alleged attempts to undermine constituted authority, leading to the current trial of 36 personnel.
Authorities say the process is part of efforts to strengthen discipline, accountability, and professionalism within the armed forces.
The alleged plot has also triggered wider legal and constitutional debate, with some legal experts arguing that the case should be transferred to civilian courts for prosecution.
However, the military insists the court-martial will follow due process under established military justice procedures.
Security analysts say the case highlights:
Ongoing internal security challenges within the armed forces
Heightened government sensitivity to coup-related threats
Efforts to maintain discipline in the military hierarchy
Broader concerns about political stability in Nigeria
The trial is expected to continue under strict confidentiality, with further statements anticipated from the Defence Headquarters.