The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that investigations into alleged misconduct by some senior military officers uncovered claims of a plot to overthrow the government, with those indicted set to face military trial.

The DHQ had in October 2025 announced the arrest of 16 officers over acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations. The officers, who range in rank from Captain to Brigadier General, were reportedly arrested by the Defence Intelligence Agency.

At the time, Sahara Reporters had alleged that the officers were involved in secret meetings aimed at toppling the government and linked the development to the cancellation of the October 1 Independence Day parade.

Reacting to the report then, the former Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, dismissed the claims, describing the publication as an attempt to create tension and distrust among Nigerians. He maintained that the matter was purely an internal disciplinary issue.

“The ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism within the ranks. An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings will be made public,” Gusau had said.

However, providing an update on Monday, the new Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, disclosed that a comprehensive investigation had now been concluded in line with established military procedures.

According to him, the findings revealed that some of the officers have cases to answer over allegations of plotting to overthrow the government, adding that the investigation report has been forwarded to the appropriate superior authority.

“The Defence Headquarters issued a press statement in October 2025 regarding the arrest of sixteen officers over acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations,” Uba said.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria wishes to inform the general public that investigations into the matter have been concluded and the report forwarded to appropriate superior authority in line with extant regulations.

“The comprehensive investigation process, conducted in accordance with established military procedures, has carefully examined all circumstances surrounding the conduct of the affected personnel.

“The findings have identified a number of the officers with allegations of plotting to overthrow the government, which is inconsistent with the ethics, values, and professional standards required of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.”

Uba said the indicted officers would be formally arraigned before relevant military judicial panels to face trial in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other applicable service regulations.

He stressed that the process would ensure accountability while upholding fairness and due process, noting that the measures being taken were purely disciplinary.

“The Armed Forces reiterate that the actions being taken are part of ongoing institutional mechanisms to preserve order, discipline, and operational effectiveness within the ranks,” he added.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain resolute in maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, loyalty, and respect for constitutional authority.”