Nigeria to Prosecute 30 Over Alleged Coup Plot, 7 Still on the Run

Nigeria’s investigation into an alleged coup attempt has entered a decisive stage, with at least 30 suspects now set for trial after weeks of interrogation by military and intelligence agencies, according to Premium Times.

Sources revealed that several senior military officers are among those indicted for allegedly plotting to overthrow the government and assassinate key officials. The suspects will face trial in either military or civil courts based on their status.

A preliminary report prepared by the Special Investigative Panel, chaired by Major General Emmanuel Undiendeye, who also heads Defence Intelligence, has been submitted to President Bola Tinubu. The report identifies over 30 individuals for prosecution and confirms that seven others remain at large.

“The seven individuals could not be traced to their homes, and their phone lines have been inactive since the investigation began,” a source disclosed, noting that a manhunt is underway.

Military officers involved will be tried by court martial, while civilians will be prosecuted through the civil justice system.

Premium Times earlier reported the arrest of 16 top military officers in late September, 14 from the Army and two from the Navy and Air Force, accused of holding secret meetings to destabilize the government. The identities of the newly detained suspects have not yet been released.

Former Bayelsa governor and ex-petroleum minister, Timipre Sylva, denied any involvement after soldiers raided his residence. His spokesperson, Julius Bokoru, confirmed significant property damage during the raid and said Sylva was abroad at the time.

The Defence Headquarters previously described the probe as a “routine internal process” to maintain discipline but has not denied coup allegations. Reports indicate the plot targeted President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.

Following the arrests, President Tinubu reshuffled the military hierarchy, replacing the Chief of Defence Staff and several service chiefs. Although the presidency has not officially linked the changes to the coup investigation, sources suggest the timing is connected.