Victims of Nigeria’s alleged coup plots from 1995 and 1997 are appealing to President Tinubu to finally implement the Oputa Panel’s recommendations. They want justice after over 30 years of waiting.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Olugbedë of Gbede Kingdom, Col. (retired) Engr. Olusegun Oloruntoba, spoke for the group. He said, “In our last open letter to you, dated March 12, 2025, we made humble appeals. As in that letter… we can’t stop believing you will make it happen.”
These victims faced torture, detention without trial, and accusations of plotting against the state under successive military regimes. Many had their careers halted, military ranks stripped, and reputations ruined, while others never recovered at all.
Legacy of the Oputa Panel’s Unfulfilled Mandate
The Human Rights Violations Investigation Commission, known as the Oputa Panel, was set up in 1999 by President Obasanjo to examine abuses under military rule. It recommended formal apologies, financial compensation, complete rehabilitation, and restoration of military ranks.
But no government has followed through. Oloruntoba said the victims remain in limbo. “While demanding justice, we are appealing to find favour from your gracious and generous presence… We seek the implementation of the Oputa Panel’s recommendations, including promotion to our rightful ranks, a letter of apology, and comprehensive rehabilitation.”
He stressed that time is running out, noting many victims are already deceased. “We are aware that time is running out, and many of our colleagues have passed away without seeing justice… We appeal to you, one more time, Mr President, to act promptly and right the wrongs of the past,” Oloruntoba stated.
Turning Hope into Action Under Tinubu’s Leadership
The group is urging President Tinubu to show leadership by acting now. They said his presidency represents a new opportunity for justice. “We are convinced that your presidency marks a new chapter in our quest for justice,” they wrote.
They recalled Nigeria’s thwarted 1993 democratic transition and the wave of cynicism that followed. “For those who dared to dream, their aspirations were brutally extinguished when a new regime of tyranny seized power…” Oloruntoba lamented.
He noted that many former victims later rose to prominence, while others remained forgotten. They hope Tinubu will extend compassion and demonstrate that justice delayed is not justice denied.
Nigeria was ruled by soldiers for at least half of its post-independence history, which saw series of coup and counter-coups each promising to deliver stability and good governance, which arguably never materialized.
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