Nigeria charges six men over alleged 2025 coup plot

In Nigeria, prosecutors on Tuesday, April 21, formally charged six men—including a retired major general—over their alleged involvement in a plot to stage a coup in October 2025.

The case marks a significant escalation after authorities initially dismissed reports of a coup attempt, even as the military announced the arrest of 16 officers over what it described as “disciplinary issues.” In the aftermath, President Bola Tinubu carried out a major reshuffle of the country’s military high command.

According to Nigerian media reports, the alleged conspiracy involved around 40 suspects, including senior officers. The plot reportedly aimed to attack and seize control of Aso Rock, the presidential residence in Abuja, with plans to capture—or even assassinate—President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima. The President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives were also said to be targets.

The six suspects were officially indicted on April 21 and are expected to appear before the High Court in Abuja on Wednesday, April 22. Those charged include a retired general, a retired captain, a police inspector, and several civilians.

They face 13 counts ranging from treason and terrorism to failure to disclose information and money laundering. Prosecutors allege that the accused were aware of the plot orchestrated by Colonel Mohammed Alhassan Ma’aji, identified as the alleged mastermind behind the attempted coup.

According to the charge sheet, the suspects “conspired among themselves to commit acts of terrorism” and “knowingly, though indirectly,” provided support to Colonel Ma’aji.

Other individuals have also been named in the case, including a former governor of Bayelsa State who is currently on the run and is suspected of financing the operation.

At least 16 active-duty senior officers—including Ma’aji—have been arrested. Fourteen belong to the Nigerian Army, while others are from the Navy and Air Force. These military personnel could face trial before a court martial for their alleged roles in the plot.

Investigators say the conspirators planned to storm Aso Rock and assassinate Nigeria’s top leadership, including the president, vice president, Senate president, and speaker of the House of Representatives.