FG speaks on coup plot in Nigeria
The Federal Government has warned that anyone planning to overthrow the government through a coup is wasting time because Nigerians would not support such a move.
Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa revealed this during an interview on Arise Television on Friday.
Musa said the military officers currently facing prosecution over an alleged coup plot acted wrongly and misled junior officers into trouble.
The defence minister explained that he was among those who uncovered the alleged plan while serving as Chief of Defence Staff.
According to him, security authorities investigated the matter, identified the suspects and began legal action against those involved.
The Federal Government had cancelled the military parade earlier scheduled for Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day celebration on October 1, 2025.
After the cancellation, reports surfaced that the decision was connected to an alleged attempt to remove President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from office.
In January 2026, the Defence Headquarters confirmed that security agencies had uncovered a coup plot.
Military officers, police personnel and some civilians linked to the matter are currently standing trial.
During the interview, Musa said those accused in the case are being allowed to defend themselves in court.
He added that the military leadership is using the incident to teach younger officers that democracy remains better than military rule.
According to him, some of the suspects were confused individuals who dragged junior officers into a dangerous situation.
He said there was no reason for anyone to think about a coup because the armed forces are receiving proper attention from the government.
Musa stated that soldiers have not experienced salary problems and that efforts are being made to improve their allowances and welfare.
He also said the military has continued to receive equipment to strengthen operations across the country.
The defence minister maintained that Nigerians themselves would reject any attempt to topple a democratic government, adding that those behind the alleged plot made a poor decision by trying to carry out such plans.
