Senior lawyers, civil society groups, and retired military generals have condemned any attempt to undermine the nation’s democracy.

In response to the allegations, the Defence Headquarters has strongly denied the existence of any such plot or related detentions. Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Media Operations, told newsmen that the Armed Forces were unaware of any coup attempt.

“I am not aware that anyone was detained for plotting a coup,” Gusau stated. “We have not released any new statement regarding the 16 personnel we earlier confirmed were in custody. If there is any update, we will inform the public accordingly.”

In a previous statement issued on October 4, the Defence Headquarters clarified that the 16 officers in question were arrested for violating military regulations and engaging in acts of indiscipline.

The statement noted that the affected officers were reportedly frustrated over perceived career stagnation, particularly due to repeated failures in promotion exams.

However, online investigative outlet Sahara Reporters published claims suggesting the arrests were directly linked to a coup plot. According to the report, the detained officers ranging from the rank of Captain to Brigadier General were allegedly apprehended by the Defence Intelligence Agency, DIA, at their homes across different states.

A security source corroborated aspects of the report, claiming the arrests were related to a coup plan originally scheduled for October 1. The source added that the operation was foiled when the arrests began a day earlier, which allegedly led to the abrupt cancellation of the Independence Day parade.

“The arrests started on September 30. More than 16 officers have been picked up, and they are all serving military personnel, led by a senior general,” the source said.

As tensions rise, calls for transparency and calm continue to mount, with many urging the government and military to uphold democratic principles and provide clear, factual updates to the public.

Source: Punch