Nigeria files treason and terrorism charges against six suspects over 2025 coup plot including Sylva

The recent charges against six suspects, notably including former Minister Sylva, mark a significant escalation in Nigeria’s ongoing political unrest. The case underscores the government’s focus on dismantling the alleged coup network, with proceedings set to begin soon. Watch for potential further arrests or developments as investigations continue.

Nigeria has formally charged six individuals, including former Petroleum Minister Timipre Sylva, with treason and terrorism in connection to an alleged coup plot targeting President Bola Tinubu’s government in 2025, according to Vanguard Nigeria. The charges also include conspiracy and money laundering, and the defendants are set to be arraigned in Abuja, with court hearings scheduled to resume on April 27, The Straits Times reports.

The accused group includes retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, serving police inspector Zekeri Umoru, and a retired military officer, while Sylva remains at large and denies involvement, as reported by MyJoyOnline and Vanguard Nigeria. Court documents identify Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji as the alleged mastermind, with Sylva believed to be a key financier of the plot planned to coincide with Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary on October 1, 2025, according to Capital FM Kenya.

The Nigerian military has also initiated a general court-martial to try over 30 officers suspected of involvement in the coup, with trials occurring behind closed doors in Asokoro, separate from the civilian proceedings in Abuja, Vanguard Nigeria details. Initial detentions included about 16 military personnel, reflecting the extensive nature of the government’s crackdown on the suspected conspiracy.

At their recent court appearance in Abuja, all six charged individuals pleaded not guilty to the treason accusations, and the trial was adjourned pending further investigation, as covered by The Straits Times and MyJoyOnline. The suspects remain in the custody of Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) following a court remand, according to Vanguard Nigeria.

Observers will be closely watching the forthcoming court sessions for developments that could impact Nigeria's political stability ahead of the planned 2025 Independence Day commemoration. The outcome may also influence the government’s approach to national security and how it addresses dissent within the ranks of its security agencies.