Military Should’ve Apologised For Earlier Denial Of Coup Plot, Says Falana

Prominent human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, has criticised the Nigerian military for failing to apologise to Nigerians after initially denying reports of an alleged coup plot against the government.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Tuesday, Falana described the military’s reversal—from outright denial to confirming a possible coup attempt—as misleading to the public. He stressed that authorities should acknowledge mistakes, saying, “People in authority must learn to take us seriously … you ought to have apologised to the Nigerian people. The controversy stems from the October 2025 arrest of 16 military officers, which the Defence Headquarters initially described as disciplinary actions unrelated to any coup attempt. However, recent statements from the military suggest evidence points to an attempted plot to overthrow the government, prompting renewed debate over transparency and accountability. Falana also raised concerns over the legal treatment of the detained officers, noting that alleged acts of treason should be tried in Federal or State High Courts rather than through court martial. He condemned the denial of access to lawyers, family, and medical care, arguing that these are basic rights that must be upheld. He further suggested that up to 42 people may have been arrested in connection with the plot, urging that those without formal charges be released.