36 Serving Officers Face Court Martial Over Alleged Coup Plot Against Tinubu

Court Martial Set for Alleged Coup Plot

AT least 36 serving military officers are set to be arraigned before a General Court Martial over allegations of plotting a coup against President Bola Tinubu.

The trial follows the reported constitution of a military panel by the Defence Headquarters under the Armed Forces Act.

Proceedings are expected to take place in Abuja, with security arrangements involving personnel drawn from the Army, Navy and Air Force.

Panel Drawn From Senior Military Ranks

According to reports, the court martial panel is made up of senior officers from the three armed services.

An Air Vice Marshal is expected to preside over the proceedings, supported by officers at the ranks of Major General, Rear Admiral and other senior military positions.

Legal officers and administrative personnel have also been assigned to oversee prosecution, procedure and documentation.

Accused Officers to Receive Individual Charges

Although full details of the charges have not been publicly released, authorities reportedly stated that each accused officer would be served individually.

The proceedings are expected to allow both prosecution and defence teams to call witnesses in line with applicable law.

The accused officers are also said to have the right to legal representation of their choice, while counsel may be appointed where none is secured.

Broader Investigation Expanded Arrests

Initial reports in earlier stages of the investigation indicated that fewer officers were detained.

However, subsequent investigations reportedly led to additional arrests, expanding the number of serving personnel facing trial to 36.

The case has drawn national attention due to its implications for military discipline, constitutional order and civil-military relations.

The 36 officers: