Diaspora Group Raises Alarm Over Continued Detention of Nigerian Officers

A United Kingdom–based Nigerian diaspora organisation has raised fresh legal and political concerns over the continued detention of several Nigerian military officers arrested in October over an alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu.

The group, Concerned Nigerians in the Diaspora, UK, said the officers have remained in military custody for months without being formally charged, arraigned in court, or subjected to a court-martial, describing the situation as deeply troubling under a democratic government. It warned that the prolonged detention raises serious questions about due process, transparency, and the underlying motive behind the arrests.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Abanikanda Olumoro, the group expressed concern that families and legal representatives of the detained officers have reportedly been denied access, sparking fears over their welfare, access to healthcare, and legal counsel. It argued that keeping commissioned officers in custody for such an extended period without clear legal proceedings undermines constitutional rights and weakens public confidence in the rule of law.

The diaspora group referenced the intervention of senior human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, who has publicly called for the immediate release of the officers or their prompt arraignment if credible evidence exists. According to the group, authorities have yet to present concrete proof to justify the length of the investigation, leading critics to increasingly describe the alleged coup plot as unsubstantiated.

It noted that in parts of northern Nigeria, the arrests have fuelled speculation that the detentions may be politically motivated rather than driven by genuine security concerns. Critics, the group said, believe the coup allegation is being used as a political instrument, with far-reaching consequences for the careers and lives of officers in whom the state has invested heavily.

The statement also highlighted perceptions that the issue has taken on an ethno-religious dimension, with claims that many of the affected officers are Muslims from northern Nigeria. These perceptions, it added, have been linked to wider political tensions, including ongoing disputes in Kano State and allegations of selective law enforcement against individuals perceived to be out of favour with the ruling party.

While noting that the Federal Government has not issued an official response to these claims, the group said the growing public debate around the detentions is further polarising national opinion. It observed that historically, even under past military regimes, coup allegations were often investigated and resolved within weeks, with suspects either prosecuted or released if evidence was insufficient.

The group stressed that strict adherence to due process and respect for fundamental rights are essential to sustaining democracy and maintaining public trust in both the government and the Nigerian armed forces.