Nigeria Charges Six People with Treason Over Alleged Independence Day Coup Plot

Authorities in Nigeria have charged six individuals, including a retired military officer and a serving police inspector, with treason over an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu.

The charges were filed by the Attorney General at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where the defendants are scheduled to appear before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik.

A seventh individual, former governor and ex–oil minister Timipre Sylva, was also named in court documents but is currently reported to be at large.

The alleged coup plot reportedly came to light after the sudden cancellation of Nigeria’s Independence Day military parade in October 2025, which officials initially attributed to security concerns.

In January, the Nigerian military announced that 16 officers would face a court martial over attempts to remove the president, although it remains unclear how this connects to the civilian charges now filed.

Those charged include a retired major general, a former navy captain, a police inspector, a civilian worker at the Presidential Villa, an Islamic cleric, and an electrician.

Prosecutors allege the group conspired to “levy war against the state” and failed to report intelligence related to the alleged plan. The case also includes accusations linked to terrorism financing and money laundering.

According to the charge sheet, the alleged plot was led by Col Mohammed Alhassan Ma’aji, who has already been arrested along with other suspects.

The defendants have not yet publicly responded to the allegations.

Under Nigerian law, treason is one of the most serious offences and can carry severe penalties, including life imprisonment.

Nigeria has maintained uninterrupted civilian rule since 1999, with the military repeatedly affirming its commitment to democratic governance.