**Coup Plot Trial: Federal Government Dithers on Trial Mode** Nigeria is witnessing an unprecedented delay in the trial of 16 senior military officers and 24 civilians arrested for allegedly plotting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu's administration. The Defence Headquarters had confirmed the arrests, but since then, there has been an eerie silence regarding the trial process. The uncertainty stems from a confusing debate over the jurisdiction of the trial, with some officials arguing that the accused should face a civilian court while others insist on a court-martial. The controversy began in October 2025 when the military arrested a group of senior officers, including a Brigadier General, a Naval officer, and Air Force personnel. Initially, the authorities denied any link to a coup plot, but later admitted that the arrests were connected to an alleged plan to topple Tinubu's administration. Since then, the Defence Headquarters had announced that the indicted officers would be court-martialled in line with military rules. However, senior military officers revealed that the delay was due to uncertainty over the President's directive on the constitution of the court-martial panel. The debate revolves around whether a court-martial is the right venue for the trial. Some officials argue that since the alleged offence was committed under a democratic government, a civilian court would be more appropriate. Others insist that the military rules and regulations should take precedence. A senior officer at Army headquarters hinted that investigations had been concluded, but the trial was being held up due to the uncertainty over which court would handle the matter. The Federal Ministry of Justice is yet to decide on the trial venue, with some officials describing the situation as "confusion." The indecision has raised concerns about the delay in bringing the accused to justice and the implications for national security. As the country waits with bated breath for a resolution, one thing is clear: the trial of the accused military officers and civilians will be a landmark case that tests the limits of Nigeria's democratic institutions.