Wives of some of the 36 military personnel currently facing court-martial over an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu have raised concerns over the deteriorating health conditions of their husbands in detention.
The women alleged that prolonged starvation, poor ventilation in underground detention facilities, and harsh treatment have resulted in severe eyesight problems, lung complications, high blood pressure, and psychological trauma among the detainees.
Speaking to Sahara Reporters on Sunday, June 7, 2026, the wives described significant changes in the physical and mental health of their husbands since their arrest. One of them claimed her husband, who was among the first group of officers detained, was denied food for four days and survived only on water.
According to her, the prolonged deprivation affected his health significantly, leading to noticeable weight loss and weakness. Other wives echoed similar concerns, saying the detainees are no longer the same individuals they knew before their arrest.
The women further alleged that detention officials intentionally switch off electricity and ventilation systems in the underground facility as a form of punishment. They claimed this practice has exposed the detainees to poor air circulation, resulting in persistent coughing, breathing difficulties, and other respiratory illnesses.
Some of the wives also alleged that prolonged confinement in dark conditions has affected the eyesight of many detainees. They said several of the soldiers now depend on prescription glasses provided by military doctors and struggle to read or adjust to bright light.
They added that pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes have worsened due to inadequate medical attention, while many detainees reportedly exhibit signs of depression, trauma, agitation, and emotional distress.
The detained military personnel are facing charges including conspiracy, mutiny, and failure to suppress mutiny over an alleged plot said to have occurred between January 2022 and November 2025. The court-martial proceedings have attracted public attention and debate, particularly regarding due process and the conditions under which the accused are being held.
The trial has since been adjourned, while the allegations by the soldiers’ wives continue to raise concerns about the welfare and treatment of the accused personnel in detention.
Source: Sahara Reporters
_ Deborah Adeyefa
