Families of military officers detained over an alleged coup plot against the Tinubu administration staged a protest at the National Assembly complex on Wednesday, calling for transparency and due process in the handling of the case.
The protesters, mostly the wives and children of the detained officers, demanded a speedy trial and the immediate release of the accused officials.
Amid tears, the children appealed for justice and access to their fathers, many of whom they said they had not seen for months. The protesters urged the Federal Government and military authorities to either formally charge the detained officers in a court of law or release them.
Halima Mohammed, the eight-year-old daughter of Lieutenant Colonel Mohammed Almakura, told journalists that her family is only seeking justice.
Fatima Yusuf, daughter of Wing Commander Yusuf, made an emotional plea to the nation’s leadership, saying: “I want to beg the President and our First Lady to bring my daddy safely back.”
Daily Trust reports that the officers were arrested in 2025 following intelligence reports of an alleged coup plot involving some military personnel and civilians against the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
While authorities have not publicly disclosed full details of the alleged coup plot, security analysts noted that such detentions are typically handled under strict military protocols, often shielded from public scrutiny due to national security implications.
However, the lack of official communication and the continued detention of suspects without trial have raised concerns among civil society groups and legal experts. They argue that even in matters of national security, the rule of law must be upheld.