The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) on Monday disclosed that investigations into alleged misconduct by some officers unveiled claims of a plot to overthrow the government.
In October 2025, the DHQ reported the arrest of 16 officers for indiscipline and violations of service norms.
On October 18, Sahara Reporters claimed that the officers, ranging in rank from captain to brigadier general, had been arrested by the Defence Intelligence Agency for allegedly having covert meetings to overthrow the government.
The platform further connected the cancellation of the October 1 Independence Day parade to the purported conspiracy.
Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the former Director of Defence Information, responded at the time, saying the release was designed to cause friction and distrust among Nigerians and that the affair was entirely a disciplinary matter addressed internally.
“The ongoing investigation involving the sixteen officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism are maintained within the ranks. An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings will be made public,” the statement said.
Major General Samaila Uba, the new Director of Defence Information, issued an update on Monday, stating that a thorough inquiry had been undertaken in accordance with established military protocols.
He stated that the findings revealed that some of the officers had cases to answer on allegations of plotting to overthrow the government and that the inquiry report had been given to the proper higher authority.
The statement partly read, “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.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria wishes to inform the general public that investigations into the matter have been concluded and the report forwarded to the 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 AFN.”
Uba stated that individuals indicted would be formally arraigned before relevant military judicial panels to stand justice in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other applicable service laws.
He emphasized that the approach will ensure accountability while maintaining fairness and due process.
He emphasized that the measures being implemented were solely disciplinary and were part of institutional procedures aimed at maintaining order, discipline, and operational effectiveness among the ranks.
Uba added, “Accordingly, those with cases to answer will be formally arraigned before appropriate military judicial panels to face trial in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other applicable service regulations. This ensures accountability while upholding the principles of fairness and due process.
“The AFN reiterates that measures being taken are purely disciplinary and part of ongoing institutional mechanisms to preserve order, discipline, and operational effectiveness within the ranks.
“The Armed Forces remain resolute in maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, loyalty, and respect for constitutional authority.”
