…Military moves to court-martial…
…..fates of 1990 coup plotters
Photo: Defence Minister, Christopher Musa
By Didimoko A. Didimoko
Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Christopher Musa, has said military officers detained over an alleged coup plot were fully aware of the seriousness of their actions and will face trial under military law.
Speaking in an interview with an international broadcaster, Musa said claims by some relatives that the arrests were a witch-hunt were unfounded. According to him, anyone involved in an attempt to undermine constitutional authority would have understood the consequences beforehand.
He said the suspects will be tried through a court-martial process that guarantees fairness and legal representation. The minister also assured that government is making arrangements to support the families of those in detention while the legal process continues.
The Defence Headquarters confirmed that investigations into the alleged plot have been completed and reports forwarded to the appropriate superior authority for further action. Military authorities said the probe followed established procedures and examined the conduct of the affected personnel.
Director of Defence Information, Brigadier-General Samaila Uba, said officers found to have cases to answer will be arraigned before military judicial panels in line with the Armed Forces Act and other service regulations. He explained that the action is disciplinary and aimed at preserving order, loyalty and professionalism within the armed forces.
According to him, the military remains committed to constitutional rule and will continue to uphold operational discipline across all ranks.
The officers currently in detention in connection with the alleged plot are:
Brigadier General Musa Abubakar Sadiq (44 Regular Course); Colonel M. A. Ma’aji (47 Regular Course); Lieutenant Colonel S. Bappah (56 Regular Course); Lieutenant Colonel A. A. Hayatu (56 Regular Course); Lieutenant Colonel P. Dangnap (56 Regular Course); Lieutenant Colonel M. Almakura (56 Regular Course); Major A. J. Ibrahim (56 Regular Course); Major M. M. Jiddah (56 Regular Course); Major M. A. Usman (60 Regular Course); Major D. Yusuf (59 Regular Course); Major I. Dauda (DSSC 38); Captain I. Bello (DSSC 43); Captain A. A. Yusuf; Lieutenant S. S. Felix (DSSC); Lieutenant Commander D. B. Abdullahi (Nigerian Navy); and Squadron Leader S. B. Adamu (Nigerian Air Force).
Nigeria’s last major failed coup attempt occurred in April 1990 against the regime of then military ruler, General Ibrahim Babangida. The plot, led by Major Gideon Orkar and other officers, targeted key installations in Lagos but was suppressed within hours by loyal troops.
Those involved in the 1990 attempt were arrested and tried by special military tribunals. Several of the key actors were executed, while others received long prison sentences. Military justice at the time was swift and severe, with limited appeal options under military rule.
Under the current democratic system, military trials follow more structured legal procedures, including the right to counsel and formal review channels. Defence authorities say the present case will proceed under these due process rules.
