Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), has called on the Federal Government to be transparent with Nigerians over the reported arrest of military officers allegedly involved in a coup plot, saying secrecy on such a sensitive matter would only fuel public distrust and anxiety.
Falana, who spoke on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, said the government’s silence and denials have only deepened speculation and suspicion around the alleged incident.
“You know, a lot of conspiracy theories are going on, and as a lawyer, I can only speak on what is in the public domain,” the Senior Advocate of Nigeria said.
“As far as I’m concerned, the government has yet to dismiss reports of arrests of alleged coup plotters. The government must be honest with Nigerians if this happened — or if it was going to happen.”
He said the government’s failure to provide clarity on the issue could weaken public confidence at a time when the country is already facing severe economic hardship and widespread discontent.
“For the majority of our people, they remain economically disabled. And when people are planning a coup, they take advantage of mass anger in the land to strike,” he warned.
“The government must be open with Nigerians to win their trust and mobilise them against anti-democratic forces.”
Falana confirmed that arrests had been made despite the Defence Headquarters’ earlier denial, insisting that credible reports had already identified the suspects.
“No, arrests have been made. This is being reported. At the time it was denied, the government was still trying to pick up suspects. Information had already leaked out,” he said.
“So, the government must be honest with Nigerians and react to those reports one way or another.”
He urged authorities to “go back to the drawing table,” adding that transparency and accountability were vital to maintaining stability in the armed forces and protecting democratic governance.
According to media reports, at least 16 military officers were initially arrested in early October in connection with the alleged coup plot, with two others said to have escaped abroad.
Sources within the security hierarchy reportedly said some of the detained officers have made “useful statements,” leading to more arrests — bringing the number of suspects to over 30.
Although the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has maintained that the ongoing interrogations are part of “a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism within the ranks,” it has not officially confirmed or denied the alleged plot.
Falana, however, said the government must not hide behind bureaucratic excuses or security classifications to avoid accountability.
“The constitution guarantees transparency and protection for all Nigerians,” he said. “The government cannot build trust by concealing critical information about threats to democracy.”
He also linked Nigeria’s fragile political atmosphere to worsening poverty and unemployment, saying, “Economic injustice and public frustration create fertile ground for those who wish to undermine democracy. That is why the government must not only address insecurity but also tackle hunger and deprivation.”
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
