Military confirms October coup plot, site officers

Months after 16 officers were arrested for alleged coup plots, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the rumour.

The confirmation was contained in a press release issued by the Director, Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba on Monday.

The military had denied media reports of an attempt to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s government, describing the claims as baseless.

In spite of the denial, 16 officers were arrested for alleged indiscipline and breach of service codes.

Among the officers arrested, The Nation gathered, were Brig.-Gen MA Sadiq, Col Mohammed Magaji, Lt. Col Bayawo Abdullahi, Lt. Col Almakura, Lt Col Baffa, Lt Col Hayatu, Lt. Col Dagnaf, Lt Col Ibrahim, Lt Col Usman, Maj Jidda, Maj Iliyasu, and Navy Captain Erasmus Victor (rtd).

But in a statement yesterday, the DHQ confirmed that the arrest of the officers was connected to attempts to overthrow the government.

It said investigations into the matter have been concluded and the report forwarded to the appropriate superior authority in line with extant regulations.

“The comprehensive investigation process, conducted in accordance with established military procedures, has carefully examined all circumstances surrounding the conduct of the affected personnel.

“The findings have identified a number of officers with allegations of plotting to overthrow the government, which is inconsistent with the ethics, values, and professional standards required of members of the AFN.