The Defence Headquarters has formally released the identities of 16 officers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria who have been indicted over allegations of grave professional misconduct, including an alleged attempt to undermine the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
The disclosure followed the conclusion of investigations by a Special Investigative Panel constituted to probe reports of disloyal and unethical conduct within the military hierarchy.
The findings were made public on Monday by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba.
According to Major General Uba, the panel’s assignment was to thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding the actions and engagements of the officers involved.
He explained that the investigation established that a number of the personnel had serious cases to answer, warranting further disciplinary action under military law.
He stated that the affected officers would now be subjected to trial by Court Martial, in accordance with existing military procedures, rules and regulations.
He emphasised that the process is strictly internal and disciplinary in nature, noting that it is designed to uphold professionalism, discipline, unity and operational efficiency within the Armed Forces.
Major General Uba stressed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remains committed to constitutional order and democratic governance, adding that any conduct found to be at variance with military ethics, core values and professional standards would be addressed decisively.
The indicted officers cut across different ranks and service arms of the military.
They include Brigadier General Musa Abubakar Sadiq, of the 44th Regular Course, from Nasarawa State.
Colonel M. A. Ma’aji, of the 47th Regular Course, from Niger State.
Lieutenant Colonel S. Bappah, Lieutenant Colonel A. A. Hayatu, Lieutenant Colonel Dangnan, and Lieutenant Colonel M. Almakura, all of the 56th Regular Course, drawn from Bauchi, Kaduna, Plateau and Nasarawa States respectively.
Also listed are Major A. J. Ibrahim from Gombe State and Major M. M. Jiddah from Katsina State, both of the 56th Regular Course; Major M. A. Usman of the 60th Regular Course from the Federal Capital Territory; and Major D. Yusuf of the 59th Regular Course from Gombe State.
Others are Major I. Dauda of DSSC 38 from Jigawa State; Captain I. Bello of DSSC 43; Captain A. A. Yusuf; Lieutenant S. S. Felix of the DSSC cadre; Lieutenant Commander D. B. Abdullahi of the Nigerian Navy; and Squadron Leader S. B. Adamu of the Nigerian Air Force.
Military sources indicated that a significant number of the officers are from the Infantry, Signals and Ordnance Corps, units regarded as critical to combat operations and logistics within the Armed Forces.
The Defence Headquarters reiterated that the ongoing disciplinary process is aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the military institution and maintaining public confidence in its role as a professional, apolitical and constitutionally loyal force.
