The Nigerian military has inaugurated a court-martial to try 36 personnel accused of involvement in a plot to overthrow the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

The panel, set up by the Defence Headquarters, was inaugurated on Friday at the Scorpion Mess in Asokoro, Abuja, under tight security. Proceedings were held behind closed doors, with journalists denied access and restrictions placed on the use of mobile phones.

The accused officers were transported to the venue in a bus belonging to the Army Headquarters Garrison.

Separately, the federal government, through the office of the attorney-general of the federation, is prosecuting six other suspects linked to the alleged plot. Those charged include a retired major general, a retired naval captain, a serving police inspector, and several civilians. They were arraigned on a 13-count charge before a federal high court in Abuja earlier this week.

The court ordered their remand in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) and fixed April 27 for the commencement of an accelerated hearing. A former Bayelsa State governor, Timipre Sylva, was mentioned in the charge but is reportedly at large.

The alleged coup plot dates back to late 2025. On September 29, the federal government cancelled a planned parade to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day, sparking speculation of a security threat. Although the Defence Headquarters initially denied any link, it later confirmed in January 2026 that investigations had uncovered a plot involving some military personnel.

Family members of detained officers have since called for transparency, demanding an open trial and access to their relatives. Protests were also held earlier this month at the National Assembly, where families urged authorities to ensure a speedy and fair judicial process.