Activists Demand Due Process for Military Officers Held Since October

A coalition of pro-democracy advocates has called on Nigerian military authorities to either formally charge or immediately release sixteen officers who have been detained since October 2025 on allegations of misconduct.

The appeal was made by Comrade Yusuf Musa-Dauda, Chairman of the Concerned Pro-Democratic Activists of Nigeria, during a press conference on Sunday in Lafia, Nasarawa State.

The detention was initially announced by the Defence Headquarters on October 4, 2025. Then-Director of Defence Information, Brigadier-General Tukur Gusau, stated the officers were held for "indiscipline and breach of service regulations," linking their grievances to repeated failures in promotion examinations and perceived career stagnation.

The activist group, however, notes that persistent rumors have alleged a more serious accusation an attempted coup plot a claim the military has previously denied.

“We strongly condemn any coup plot or attempt by anybody or any group,” stated Musa-Dauda. “Our appeal is solely for justice and due process.”

He raised urgent concerns about the officers’ welfare, claiming some are critically ill in detention without proper medical care. He also stated that family members have been denied all access to the detainees since their incarceration.

“This prolonged isolation has created severe anguish and tension for their families,” Musa-Dauda added. “As a immediate step, we urge the authorities to provide adequate medical attention and grant humanitarian access to their loved ones.”

The group ultimately urged the federal government and military authorities to resolve the case transparently: either release the officers if no substantial evidence exists, or prosecute them publicly in accordance with the law to prove the allegations. (Based on reports from NAN