Defence Minister Christopher Musa assured that innocent suspects arrested over the alleged coup plot will be freed after thorough checks.
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd), has assured the public that any innocent person arrested in connection with the recent alleged coup plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration will be freed as soon as investigations are complete.
The top military official made this clear on Friday, September 4, 2026, while addressing journalists and security correspondents at a press briefing in Abuja.
He explained that military investigators are carefully screening every person in custody to separate innocent people from the main masterminds who planned to forcefully take over power from the democratically elected government
.
The main reason for this public assurance is to calm fears among citizens and family members who expressed concern about the arrest of military officers and civilians following news of the failed plot.
Minister Musa explained that when major security threats like coup plots happen, security agencies usually arrest many people who were seen around the suspects or mentioned in early reports. However, he stressed that the government believes in justice and human rights.
Therefore, anyone who has no real link to the crime will be allowed to go home without punishment, while those who truly planned the treason will face trial in court according to the law.
The minister reassured Nigerians that the country’s armed forces remain loyal to constitutional democracy and will continue to protect the nation’s peace and stability against any internal or external threats.
See Also: FG Calls on Nigerians to Vote for Miss World Contestant Tamunosoye Karibi George
Explaining how security officers are handling the ongoing screening process, the minister emphasized that fairness remains a top priority during questioning.
Speaking on the fate of those held in custody, Defence Minister Christopher Musa stated that “innocent suspects will be released after investigation,” adding that “we are making sure that only those who are genuinely involved in the plot face full legal prosecution.”
Reassuring the public about the loyalty of the armed forces, he further remarked that “the Nigerian military remains committed to defending democracy and protecting the constitutional government at all times. Several suspects are already being screened, while the main actors have been scheduled for formal trial.
Jennifer Baba is a journalist, international news correspondent, and writer at Moderncrux, where she covers artificial intelligence, fintech, emerging technologies, global politics, and international affairs. Based in Nigeria, she is passionate about transforming complex global developments into clear, engaging stories that inform and inspire readers.
