Lawyers representing individuals accused of plotting a coup against President Bola Tinubu have accused the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) of denying them privacy during interviews with their clients. On Monday, the lawyers visited the DIA to interview their clients, but were surprised to discover that a DIA staff member was assigned to monitor their discussions. The legal team, including Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Olalekan Ojo, objected to the arrangement, citing the need for confidentiality.
The incident occurred when the lawyers arrived at the DIA to conduct the interviews. According to one of the lawyers, a DIA staff member was attached to listen to their conversations, raising concerns among the counsel. The lawyers collectively decided not to proceed with the interviews until the official was removed. They described the arrangement as unacceptable and insisted that no third party should be present while lawyers consult with their clients.
The legal team brought the matter to the attention of the DIA coordinator, who addressed the lawyers but insisted that agency officials had to be present during the interviews. The lawyers were advised to maintain a united position and insist that no other person should be present during consultations with their clients. Olalekan Ojo SAN also advised the lawyers to formally report the incident to the court in writing while awaiting a resolution.
The alleged coup plot first became public following the arrest of serving and retired military officers in late September 2025. The Defence Headquarters initially described the arrests as relating to military discipline before subsequently acknowledging that the officers were being investigated over an alleged coup plot. The military later established the General Court Martial, while a separate Federal High Court case was brought against six alleged conspirators.
Defendants in the civilian court proceedings have denied wrongdoing, while some have challenged the admissibility of statements and other evidence tendered by the prosecution. The alleged plot has been described by investigators as involving plans to seize strategic government and military facilities and establish control over key communication points. The proceedings are being held at the Scorpion Officers’ Mess in Asokoro, Abuja.
The lawyers' concerns about the DIA's presence during the interviews highlight the challenges in ensuring confidentiality and fairness in the investigation and prosecution of the alleged coup plot. The incident has raised questions about the extent to which the DIA can monitor conversations between lawyers and their clients, and the potential impact on the defendants' rights to a fair trial.
The case is ongoing, with the lawyers and the DIA yet to reach a resolution on the issue of confidentiality during interviews. The outcome of the case and the investigation into the alleged coup plot will likely have significant implications for the country's security and stability. Key issues, including the admissibility of evidence and the defendants' rights, will continue to be contested in court.
Key points
- Lawyers representing alleged coup plotters claim DIA monitored their conversations with clients.
- The incident has raised concerns about confidentiality and fairness in the investigation and prosecution of the alleged coup plot.
- The case is ongoing, with significant implications for the country's security and stability.
