Court martial of Nigerian officers accused of coup plot to resume May 8

The Nigerian military says the court martial of 36 officers accused of involvement in an alleged coup plot will resume on May 8.

The trial opened in Abuja on April 24 and has been held behind closed doors, with no media access to the proceedings. Reports from Africanews, Vanguard and other outlets said the Defence Headquarters confirmed the next sitting date on April 27.

The officers are accused of being involved in an alleged plot against President Bola Tinubu. The military has not publicly disclosed detailed evidence in open court, and the closed format has limited what has been made available to the public.

The court martial is taking place alongside separate civilian prosecutions. AP reported last week that six suspects arraigned in federal court pleaded not guilty to treason and terrorism charges, and that the case was adjourned for bail applications.

The May 8 sitting is now the next key date in the case. It will be watched for any new pleas, rulings or further detail on how the military intends to proceed with one of the most sensitive prosecutions in recent months.