A preliminary investigation into the alleged coup attempt against the government of President Bola Tinubu has uncovered a coordinated network of active officers, led by an unnamed colonel.
According to the report, the colonel was the main coordinator of the plot. Investigators were able to establish a direct link between him and the financing, recruitment, and operational planning of the conspiracy. Officers from the Nigerian army, navy, and air force were involved in the alleged plot.
According to the investigation, the officer, apparently frustrated by his repeated failure to pass promotion exams, mobilized like-minded individuals and tasked them with covertly monitoring strategic national facilities. These included the presidential residence, the main barracks in Abuja, and the international airports in Abuja and Lagos.
The investigation revealed that the plot went beyond mere protests and was already in the early stages of operational planning. Intelligence agencies uncovered a structured plan to seize power. Surveillance operations were reportedly conducted at sensitive locations, including military bases, the Niger Barracks, and key airport facilities.
Security officials stated that the alleged coup attempt was thwarted due to intelligence reports of discord within the armed forces and civilian circles. This information led to a series of arrests, interrogations, and communications analyses that uncovered what investigators described as a coordinated and well-funded conspiracy.
Searches conducted as part of the investigation uncovered amulets and anti-government material in the colonel’s vehicle. A search of his residence in Abuja reportedly yielded sensitive documents detailing the roles of key figures and plans involving prominent public figures.
Investigators stated that financial incentives of 2 to 5 million naira were paid to some participants for logistics and mobilization, and that encrypted messaging services were used for coordination. The financial flows associated with the conspiracy are currently being analyzed, with intelligence agencies investigating the involvement of additional financiers.
One of the arrested officers, a lieutenant colonel, was identified as a key witness who provided information about the group’s recruitment methods, funding sources, and communication channels.
In October 2025, military authorities announced the arrest of 16 officers for insubordination and violations of internal regulations. The Defense Staff subsequently confirmed that a thorough investigation had been conducted and forwarded to the appropriate authorities. Those involved would be brought before a military court.
The preliminary assessment highlighted that the threat had been heightened by the involvement of multiple branches of the armed forces in the network, the participation of high-ranking officers, and the targeted harassment of strategic facilities with the aim of seizing power—all indicators of an attempted coup.
Security officials stated that further investigations were underway to identify other suspects, including civilian contacts and potential political connections. The authorities stressed that the investigations were being carried out with all due diligence in order to safeguard national stability and constitutional order.
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