The political climate in Nigeria is becoming increasingly tense as the 2027 election approaches. This Wednesday, the Federal High Court in Abuja opens the trial of six individuals, including a retired major general, accused of orchestrating an attempted coup in 2025.

The charges: "Declaring war on the state"

According to the indictment filed by the public prosecutor, the defendants are being prosecuted for conspiring to:

1. To intimidate the president of the Federal Republic.
2. Declare war on the Nigerian state .
3. To undermine the institutional stability of the country.

A recap of the facts: From denial to confirmation

The affair, which deeply shook the military institution, unfolded in several key stages:

1. October 2025: The army announces the arrest of 16 officers, officially for reasons of "indiscipline".
2. January 2026: After months of speculation and despite initial denials, the high command officially confirms the existence of a plot targeting civilian power.
3. April 2026: Civil proceedings open in Abuja. Uncertainty remains regarding the coexistence of this trial with a possible military court-martial.

Power under pressure

For President Bola Tinubu , this affair represents a major test of his hold on power. In response to this plot, the head of state has already undertaken a major reshuffle of the military command .

Political context: This trial opens as Nigeria prepares to enter the campaign for the January 2027 presidential election. Bola Tinubu, a candidate for his own succession, must deal with a persistent security crisis, marked by jihadist insurgencies and armed banditry that weaken the country.