DHQ inaugurates court martial to try 36 serving, retired officers over alleged coup

From Molly Kilete, Abuja

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), has inaugurated a General Court Martial (GCM) to try 36 serving military personnel over alleged mutiny, aimed at overthrowing the government of President Bola Tinubu.

The DHQ said the trial is in furtherance of its statement issued on 26 January, 2026, which dwelt on the subject.

The Director, Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, in a statement, said: “The inauguration marks a significant step in reinforcing discipline, accountability and the commitment of the Armed Forces to safeguarding national integrity and constituted authority.

“Proceedings of the court will be conducted with the highest standards of fairness, impartiality and strict adherence to due process, guaranteeing that justice will be served without fear or favour. All cases will be addressed within extant legal frameworks of the military justice system.

“The DHQ remains resolute in upholding professionalism, discipline and the rule of law, while ensuring that the rights of all personnel are respected and the tenets of fair hearing upheld.”

The GCM, which sits at the Scorpion Officers Mess, is headed by Air Vice Marshal H.I. Alhaji, as President; Lieutenant Colonel A. Mohammed, as Judge Advocate. Other members include Major Generals U.T. Opuene, IB Abubakar, N.U.C Ogili, SA Emmanuel and FU Mijinyawa; Rear Admirals D.M. Ndanusa and MK Igwe; as well as Air Vice Marshals M.A. Isah and A.O. Kotun. Air Vice Marshal M.M. Omar is listed as the waiting member.