How Intelligence Uncovered An Alleged Coup Network In Nigeria
Security Agencies Conclude Probe into Alleged Coup Plot
NIGERIAN security agencies have concluded investigations into an alleged plot to violently overthrow the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, identifying 40 suspects linked to the conspiracy, according to senior security and intelligence sources.
Those implicated include serving and retired military officers across the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force, a serving police officer, and several civilians allegedly involved in reconnaissance, funding, logistics and propaganda.
The investigation, coordinated by the Army Headquarters and the Department of State Services (DSS), followed months of covert intelligence gathering, surveillance and interrogations. Findings have now been forwarded to “appropriate superior authority in line with extant regulations,” the Defence Headquarters confirmed on Monday.
Composition of the Suspects
Security sources disclosed that 13 suspects were arrested directly by the DSS. Among them are two military personnel—one retired—one serving police officer and ten civilians.
In addition, 16 serving military officers were apprehended for alleged direct participation in the plot. Two civilians were arrested for reconnaissance duties, while two others were allegedly recruited to incite civil unrest to provide justification for a military takeover. Five additional suspects were linked to funding and financial coordination.
One soldier initially escaped custody but was later rearrested by DSS operatives in Bauchi State, according to insiders familiar with the operation.
Alleged Timeline of the Plot
Investigators say the alleged conspiracy dates back to 2023, when some of the suspects reportedly planned to disrupt the handover of power from former President Muhammadu Buhari to President Tinubu during the inauguration on 29 May.
That plan, however, was allegedly shelved due to insufficient funds and inadequate logistics.
Security sources claim the plot was revived in 2025 following alleged financial inflows, including nearly ₦1 billion reportedly transferred in multiple tranches through three bank accounts operated by a Bureau de Change agent.
Former Bayelsa State governor Timipre Sylva and a retired senior military officer identified as Major General Adamu were named by investigators as alleged financiers. Both men remain at large and have not publicly responded to the allegations.
Defence Headquarters Reacts
In a statement, the Defence Headquarters acknowledged the completion of investigations and confirmed that several officers were found to be facing allegations inconsistent with military ethics and professional standards.
Military authorities said disciplinary processes, including court-martial proceedings, would follow established procedures once presidential approval is granted.
“At least 25 military officers and personnel are expected to face trial,” a source familiar with the investigation disclosed.
Alleged Assassination Plans
According to earlier intelligence reports cited by sources, the alleged plot included plans to assassinate top government officials, including President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas.
Service chiefs, commanders and key installations such as the Guards Brigade were also listed as alleged targets.
“They were waiting for a day when all of them would be in the country,” one intelligence source said. “The plan was simultaneous assassinations followed by the declaration of a military government.”
Sources further alleged that informants within the Presidential Villa monitored official movements to aid planning.
Strategic Locations Allegedly Targeted
Investigators say some suspects were assigned to seize control of strategic assets, including the Presidential Villa, Niger Barracks, the Armed Forces of Nigeria Complex and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
Named Suspects and Ongoing Efforts
Among those listed are senior officers such as Brigadier General MA Sadiq, Colonel MA Ma’aji, several lieutenant colonels, majors, junior officers, non-commissioned officers and civilians.
Security agencies said joint operations are ongoing to dismantle remaining cells, track fleeing suspects—one reportedly traced to South America—and complete financial investigations with the EFCC.
Authorities stressed that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
The full names of the suspects and their unit/role are attached below:
