Falana Challenges Federal Government to Clarify Alleged Coup Plot, Says Silence Deepens Public Suspicion
Story: written Uzuh Rita November 7,2025
Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), has called on the federal government to openly address reports of a suspected coup plot and the reported arrests of military personnel linked to it. Falana said the government’s repeated denials are losing credibility due to multiple reports suggesting detentions have already taken place.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, the senior lawyer noted that the government’s silence and refusal to provide clear information is encouraging rumours and public distrust.
“There are numerous conspiracy theories circulating,” Falana stated. “The government says there was no attempted coup, yet there has been no convincing explanation about the reported arrests. Nigerians deserve honesty—either it happened, or steps were being taken to prevent it.”
Falana argued that transparency is crucial in uniting citizens against anti-democratic elements. According to him, when leaders are open with the public, it becomes easier to mobilise national support to protect democracy.
He also warned that widespread hardship creates a fertile ground for destabilisation, stressing that “mass suffering has always been a tool exploited by coup plotters.”
‘Arrests Have Taken Place’
Addressing the claim that the matter is too sensitive for public discussion, Falana said available information already confirms arrests were made.
“Arrests have happened. It is being reported everywhere. Information has leaked. Government must respond in one way or the other,” he said.
Reports from military insiders suggest that investigations are ongoing. Early findings indicated that 16 officers were taken into custody in the first week of October, with two others allegedly fleeing the country. Over 30 personnel are now believed to be detained after fresh arrests based on statements extracted from earlier suspects.
Although speculations initially suggested the planned plot would take place on October 1, arrests reportedly began days after the Independence anniversary.
The Defence Headquarters has not admitted any coup plot, insisting that the questioning of 16 officers is part of a “routine internal process” aimed at upholding discipline within the armed forces.
Falana emphasised that beyond clarification, the government must tackle security challenges and guarantee the safety of Nigerians, as required by the constitution
