Accused Colonel Rejects Military Court In Coup Trial
A Nigerian Army colonel standing trial over an alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu has asked a military court in Abuja to dismiss the charges against him.
Col Mohammed Ma’aji argued that the Defence Headquarters Garrison General Court Martial lacked the authority to hear the case.
Ma’aji claimed the Armed Forces of Nigeria, listed as the complainant, was not recognised in law as a legal body capable of prosecuting criminal matters.
He also argued that the allegations against him did not amount to mutiny under the Armed Forces Act.
The officer further maintained that the charges focused more on alleged offences against the Nigerian state rather than military discipline or rebellion within the armed forces.
His legal team urged the tribunal to strike out the case for lack of jurisdiction.
Meanwhile, proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja heard fresh allegations linked to the wider coup investigation.
A witness told investigators that plans were discussed to force entry into the Presidential Villa and disrupt electricity supply before security concerns led him to distance himself from the alleged operation.
