Nigeria Files Treason Charges Against Coup Plotters

The Federal Government of Nigeria has filed a 13-count charge against six individuals, including retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Naval Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Inspector Ahmad Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani, for an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu. Former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, is also named in the charge but is currently at large. The charges, filed before the Nigeria — Federal High Court of Nigeria in Abuja, include treason, terrorism, failure to disclose security intelligence, and money laundering linked to terrorism financing. The alleged plot, which surfaced in October 2025 with the cancellation of Nigeria's 65th Independence Anniversary parade, was initially denied by the Nigeria — Defence Headquarters but later confirmed in January 2026. The defendants are accused of conspiring to wage war against Nigeria, having prior knowledge of the treasonable act involving Colonel Mohammed Alhassan Ma aji, and failing to prevent it. Specific allegations include attending meetings to destabilize Nigeria's constitutional structure and handling significant sums of Nigeria — Nigerian naira from terrorism financing. The case is expected to draw considerable public attention, raising concerns about national security and civil-military relations.