Nigeria's Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd), has confirmed that military officers arrested over a foiled coup plot against President Bola Tinubu were fully aware of the consequences of their actions and are prepared to face justice. Speaking on TRT World, a Turkish broadcaster, Musa assured that the accused individuals would receive fair trials, with access to legal counsel of their choice. He also stated that the Nigerian government is committed to looking after the families of the alleged coup plotters, ensuring that their wives and children are not abandoned.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) officially confirmed the coup plot on January 26, following earlier reports and initial denials. The plot, which was uncovered in late September 2025 through joint intelligence efforts involving the army, Department of State Services (DSS), and Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), allegedly involved plans to assassinate President Bola Tinubu, Vice-President Kashim Shettima, and other top government figures, as well as to arrest senior military leaders. Sixteen implicated officers, including a Brigadier-General and a Colonel, were arrested in October 2025 in connection with the conspiracy.

Investigations have revealed a broader network of individuals involved, with Nigerian security agencies identifying approximately 40 suspects. These suspects include senior military officers from various branches of the armed forces, a police officer, and several civilians. The civilians are alleged to have played roles in reconnaissance, funding, and propaganda operations. The State Security Service (SSS) reportedly apprehended 13 individuals, including two military personnel (one retired), one policeman, and ten civilians. Additionally, two civilians were implicated in reconnaissance, two were recruited to incite civil disobedience to justify the coup, and five others were linked to funding channels. One soldier who briefly escaped custody was later re-arrested by SSS operatives in Bauchi.

The conspirators initially planned to disrupt the presidential inauguration and handover of power from former President Muhammadu Buhari to President Tinubu on May 29, 2023. However, this plan was suspended due to a lack of sufficient funds and inadequate logistical arrangements. The plot was reactivated in 2025, allegedly after Timipre Sylva, a former governor of Bayelsa State, transferred nearly N1 billion in multiple tranches to bank accounts operated by a Bureau De Change operator. While Mr. Sylva has confirmed a raid on his house, he has denied any involvement in the coup plot. Retired Major General Adamu, identified as another key figure accused of bankrolling the plotters, remains at large, along with three other fleeing suspects, one of whom has been tracked to a country in South America.

Amidst these developments, family members of the detained officers have intensified their appeals to the presidency for leniency. Relatives are reportedly reaching out to top political and government officials, urging President Tinubu to