Fresh controversy has erupted over the ongoing General Court Martial convened by the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, following allegations of inhumane treatment, denial of fair hearing, and exclusion of families from proceedings involving 36 detained military officers.
The officers, who are standing trial over alleged coup-related offences, were reportedly brought before the court in leg chains, with some showing visible signs of physical abuse, including untreated wounds and deteriorating health conditions.
The court-martial, chaired by Air Vice Marshal HI Alhaji, is being held under tight security at the Scorpion Officers’ Mess in Asokoro, Abuja, with access restricted strictly to authorised personnel.
According to documents, the panel comprises senior military officers including Major General UT Opuene, Major General IB Abubakar, Major General NUC Ogili, and Rear Admiral DM Ndanusa, among others drawn from the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Sources familiar with the proceedings described the courtroom atmosphere as “deeply disturbing,” alleging that some defendants struggled to stand during sessions due to injuries sustained during detention.
Adding to the concerns, family members of the accused officers have reportedly been barred from attending the hearings, raising questions about transparency and compliance with constitutional provisions on fair trial.
More troubling allegations suggest that some members of the panel were previously accused by the defendants of involvement in acts of torture during the investigation phase—yet were not disqualified from participating in the trial.
“The same individuals accused of supervising or enabling torture are now part of the system determining the fate of these officers,” a source said, questioning the impartiality of the process.
The prosecution team includes officers such as Lt Col JA Orumor, Maj A Isa-Bello, and others, while a technical team has also been assigned to support proceedings.
The court-martial was constituted under the Armed Forces Act by Major General AM Alechenu, Commander of the Defence Headquarters Garrison.
Although medical personnel have reportedly been assigned to assess the fitness of the accused before each session, sources claim that necessary treatment has not been provided to those in critical condition.
“The presence of a medical officer means nothing if those in need of treatment are left to deteriorate in chains,” another source alleged.
The charges against the officers have not been publicly disclosed, but are believed to be linked to an alleged coup plot within the armed forces. Among those facing trial are senior officers, including Brigadier General MA Sadiq and Colonel MA Ma’aji.
Legal observers warn that, if verified, the reported conditions could constitute violations of Nigerian law and international human rights standards governing the treatment of detainees.
The case has been adjourned to May 12, 2026, as calls grow for the military authorities to address concerns over due process, humane treatment, and transparency in what is shaping up to be one of Nigeria’s most sensitive military trials in recent years.