Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has cast doubt on recent coup plot allegations involving detained Nigerian military officers, warning that similar accusations in the past were later proven to be unfounded.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Sowore cited historical precedents to argue that claims of coup plotting in Nigeria have sometimes been used without sufficient evidence.
According to him, several individuals previously accused of planning coups were later cleared or their cases discredited.
Sowore specifically referenced the case of Hamza Al-Mustapha, who served as Chief Security Officer to former military ruler Sani Abacha.
He said Al-Mustapha was once accused during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo of plotting a coup while in detention.
According to Sowore, the allegation was reportedly linked to claims that Al-Mustapha had attempted to acquire a “Stinger,” a portable surface-to-air missile system.
“We know what happened under Obasanjo, when even Gen Mustapha in detention was accused of plotting a coup, supposedly because they found him buying a Stinger,” Sowore said.
He argued that such accusations must always be treated with caution, recalling similar cases dating back to the early 1990s.
“I have experienced many instances where people are accused of plotting a coup that they never plotted since my days at university.
“In 1992, some people were alleged to have committed these grave offences, and following that was 1995,” he said.
Sowore also expressed concern over the reported detention of about 120 military officers, who he said have been held for approximately five months without access to their families or legal representation.
He warned that prolonged detention under such conditions could amount to torture and increase the likelihood of coerced confessions.
“Even if there was evidence of a coup attempt, that does not justify denying the accused their basic rights,” Sowore said, stressing the importance of due process and the rule of law.
The activist further noted that keeping detainees isolated from legal counsel and family members leaves them solely in the custody of their interrogators, a situation he described as deeply troubling.
He urged authorities to ensure transparency and respect for human rights while investigating the allegations.
