Arrested Coup Plotters Knew The Consequences Of Their Actions – Defence Minister

Christopher Musa, minister of defence, says military officers arrested over the foiled coup attempt “must have made up their minds” about the consequences.

Recall that sixteen officers, including a brigadier general and a colonel, were arrested in October 2025.

The defence headquarters (DHQ) initially announced the arrests on October 4, citing “acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations”.

On January 26, the DHQ confirmed that the officers were linked to a plot to remove President Bola Tinubu.

The military said the plan was uncovered in late September 2025 through joint intelligence involving the army, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA).

According to the DHQ, the alleged plot included plans to assassinate Tinubu, Kashim Shettima, vice-president, and other senior government officials.

The military also said the suspects intended to arrest top military leaders.

Musa spoke on the matter during an appearance on TRT World, a Turkish broadcaster.

He said the accused officers would be given a fair trial and allowed access to legal counsel of their choice.

Musa added that the government would ensure the families of the suspects are treated fairly.

“They must have made up their minds when they decided to do this and must have considered their families,” Musa said.

“But even at that, the government is ensuring that their families are treated fairly.

“Their family members are not left alone. The government is making sure that their wives and children are looked after.

“The perpetrators already know the repercussion of their action, and I’m sure they are ready to face the wrath.”