Alleged Coup: Wives of Detained Military Officers Warn Against Convictions Without Evidence

According to a report by The Punch on Monday, May 25, 2026, wives of detained military officers facing coup-related charges have appealed to President Bola Tinubu to ensure fairness and transparency, warning against convictions without credible evidence.

In a letter titled “A Humble Appeal for Fairness, Transparency, and Justice in the Ongoing Military Trial,” twelve spouses of the suspects raised concerns over potential institutional bias and coercion.

The women acknowledged the trial as a step toward accountability but expressed fear that the process could be compromised.

Recalling Nigeria’s history with controversial “phantom coups,” they stated that prolonged detentions and reports of inhumane treatment have heightened public anxiety.

They argued that confessions allegedly extracted through torture or severe pressure should not destroy the lives, careers, and families of the accused.

The military authorities first announced the arrest of 16 officers on October 4, 2025, for alleged indiscipline.

However, subsequent investigations claimed to uncover a clandestine network, coordinated by a senior Army officer, plotting a coup originally scheduled for October 25, 2025.

The alleged plotters, including Brigadier General M. A. Sadiq and several Lieutenant Colonels, supposedly placed key national assets like the Presidential Villa and major international airports under surveillance, targeting President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.

This appeal follows recent developments at a Federal High Court in Abuja, where Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ordered a trial-within-trial.

The court is currently determining the voluntariness of statements made by six other civilian and retired defendants, including retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana and Islamic cleric Sheikh Abdulkadir Sani, who are facing separate treason and terrorism charges.

The wives urged the Commander-in-Chief to ensure that the law remains stronger than institutional pressure, preventing another dark chapter in Nigeria’s judicial history…See More