Coup plot: Innocent suspects will be released after investigation — Defence minister

Defence Minister Christopher Musa has announced that some suspects arrested in connection with the alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu will be released if investigations determine they have no case to answer. The minister made this statement during an interview on Channels Television's Politics Today, explaining that those found not guilty after investigation would be set free.

Musa emphasized that only the main actors involved in the alleged plot would face prosecution, urging a thorough investigation to prevent innocent individuals from being wrongfully implicated. The Department of State Services and the National Intelligence Agency are currently conducting the investigation, with some suspects already taken to court.

Musa described the individuals involved as "a bunch of misguided individuals," adding that the alleged plot had political motives. He further stated that authorities were cautious to avoid blaming innocent people, mentioning that some suspects were still at large. The alleged coup plot originated in October 2025 when 16 senior military officers were arrested for alleged indiscipline and breaches of service regulations.

The military linked these arrests to an alleged coup plot, which eventually expanded to include surveillance of critical national assets and expanded beyond the military investigation. Six individuals, accused of treason, terrorism, failure to disclose security information, and money laundering linked to terrorism financing, are facing charges in a Federal High Court in Abuja, while military officers accused of involvement are also undergoing proceedings before a General Court Martial.