A significant legal and professional controversy has erupted in Abuja concerning the ongoing secret military trial of alleged coup plotters. The conflict centers on a directive issued by the court martial, which adjourned proceedings to May 18 and mandated that lawyers representing the defendants must appear in wigs and gowns, or risk being denied audience before the tribunal. This order followed an earlier confrontation between tribunal officials and defense lawyers over courtroom dress requirements within the restricted military facility where the trial is being conducted under tight security.

Civilian lawyers initially challenged the tribunal's authority to impose such a dress code, arguing that these conditions were arbitrary and raised broader constitutional concerns, especially given that the trial involves civilians. The disagreement created a tense atmosphere, with tribunal officials reportedly threatening to eject non-compliant lawyers. Despite these warnings, the defense lawyers maintained their stance, questioning the legality of denying legal representation based on dress requirements. This latest directive and adjournment have further intensified criticism regarding the trial's secrecy and the conditions governing its proceedings.

Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has strongly condemned the directive. In a statement titled “Why Lawyers Cannot Robe Before Military Courts,” Falana argued that the order violates the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners and could expose lawyers to disciplinary action for professional misconduct. He asserted that military authorities lack the power to compel civilian lawyers and military prosecutors to robe before a General Court Martial. Falana revealed that the controversial directive was specified in Item 9(g) of a convening order issued on April 23, 2026, by Major General A.M. Alechenu for the trial of 36 military officers accused of attempting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu, which explicitly stated that all civilian lawyers “are to be robed.”

Falana maintained that this directive is