The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has constituted a General Court Martial to prosecute 36 officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces over allegations of involvement in an attempted coup against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The accused personnel cut across various ranks, including senior officers, mid-level commanders, and non-commissioned officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Among those listed are Brigadier General MA Sadiq (N/10321), Colonel MA Ma’aji (N/10668), and several Lieutenant Colonels, Majors, Captains, and junior ranks.
Others on the list include Wing Commander IU Yusuf (NAF/3117), Squadron Leaders SB Adamu (NAF/3481) and NG Zuzu (NAF/3617), as well as naval officer Lieutenant Commander DB Abdullahi (NN/3289). The list also features multiple soldiers, including warrant officers, sergeants, corporals, and lance corporals.
Although the specific charges have not been publicly disclosed, a convening order indicates that each accused person will be formally served with individual charges. The proceedings are expected to be guided by the Armed Forces Act and relevant legal provisions.
The order guarantees the accused the right to legal representation, stating that they may choose their own defence counsel. Where this is not possible, the convening authority will assign one at no cost. Both prosecution and defence teams will also be permitted to call witnesses in line with the Evidence Act, 2023.
The trial is scheduled to take place at the Scorpion Officers’ Mess in Asokoro, Abuja, under tight security arrangements. Restrictions include a total ban on weapons within the courtroom and prohibition of unauthorized phones and electronic devices on the premises, with only designated court guards allowed to be armed.
All accused personnel will remain in custody under escort throughout the proceedings. Security protocols also include thorough screening of all participants before entry.
Logistical arrangements covering accommodation, transportation, medical support, and technical needs have been put in place for the duration of the trial. Officers are expected to appear in designated military dress codes, while civilian lawyers are required to appear in robes.
The court martial panel is expected to conclude and submit its proceedings report within 60 days after the trial ends.
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