Nigerian authorities have formally charged six individuals with terrorism and treason over an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu in 2025, according to court documents filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The charges, dated April 21, 2026, were confirmed by the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria's domestic intelligence agency.
The accused include retired Major-General Umar Musa, serving police Inspector Daniel Ita, and four civilians: Emmanuel Osase, Samuel Oni, Christopher Uchenna, and Christopher Omon. The charges allege they were involved in a conspiracy to violently overthrow the government, an act classified as terrorism under Nigerian law.
The case follows the DSS's announcement in March 2025 that it had uncovered a plot by a "criminal network" to instigate a violent revolution and had arrested several suspects. The agency stated the plotters aimed to exploit socio-economic challenges to cause unrest. The new court filings represent the first formal charges in the case.
President Bola Tinubu, who was elected in 2023, has faced significant economic pressures during his tenure. The Nigerian government has repeatedly stated its commitment to national security and the rule of law. The case is expected to proceed through the Federal High Court, with the next hearing scheduled for May 2026.
