Nigeria Inaugurates Court Martial for 36 Coup Plot Accused

Nigeria's military authorities inaugurated a General Court Martial on Friday to try 36 serving personnel accused of plotting a coup against President Bola Tinubu, marking the start of formal proceedings in a case that has raised concerns about national stability.

The court convened at the Scorpion Mess in Asokoro, Abuja, under tight security. The accused, including senior and junior officers from the army, navy, and air force, arrived at the venue around 8:53 a.m. in a military bus. Proceedings began behind closed doors, with journalists denied access and mobile phones prohibited to ensure security. The panel, chaired by Air Vice Marshal H.I. Alhaji and comprising senior officers from all three services, was established under the Armed Forces Act to address allegations of mutiny aimed at overthrowing the government.

Defence Headquarters spokesman Major General Samaila Uba stated that the inauguration "marks a significant step in reinforcing discipline, accountability and the commitment of the Armed Forces to safeguarding national integrity and constituted authority." He assured that the trials would adhere to the highest standards of fairness, impartiality, and due process, with...