Investigation Uncovers Colonel Behind Foiled Coup Plot Against President Tinubu
An interim investigation into the alleged coup plot against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has revealed that a serving Army Colonel allegedly coordinated a network of military officers planning to overthrow the government, targeting the President, Vice President Kashim Shettima, ministers, and key national installations. The Defence Headquarters confirmed that arrests of implicated personnel are ongoing and that those indicted will be arraigned before appropriate military judicial panels.
According to the report, the Army officer, whose repeated failures in promotion reportedly fueled his disaffection, mobilised like-minded officers across the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Investigators traced the plot to operational planning stages, including surveillance of critical national sites such as the Presidential Villa, major barracks in Abuja and Lagos, and international airports. Financial inducements ranging from ₦2 million to ₦5 million were allegedly provided to some officers to fund logistics, while encrypted communication platforms were used to coordinate activities.
Searches of the Colonel’s vehicle and residence in Lokogoma, Apo, reportedly uncovered anti-government materials, charms, and sensitive documents outlining roles for principal actors and instructions on handling high-profile government officials during the planned takeover. Intelligence also linked the plotters to civilian collaborators, financiers, and political associates under ongoing investigation.
The 16 officers currently in custody include Brigadier General M.A. Sadiq, Colonel M.A. Maaji, Lieutenant Colonels S. Bappah, A.A. Hayatu, P. Dangnap, M. Almakura, and several majors and captains. Most of the suspects are of northern extraction, with a few from other regions. Two officers, Major J.M. Ganaks and Captain G. Binuga, remain at large. One of the detained officers, Lieutenant Colonel Bappah, has reportedly provided detailed testimony on funding flows, recruitment methods, and operational coordination, offering investigators crucial insight into the network’s structure.
Investigators said the plot was initially set for October 25, 2025, and was intended to be fatal, with multiple high-ranking officials marked for elimination. The report warned that the cross-service nature of the conspiracy and the involvement of senior officers up to Brigadier General demonstrated a sophisticated, well-funded plan capable of undermining national stability.
Security sources noted that while the investigation initially focused on serving military personnel, it has now expanded to include civilian contacts and potential political linkages, including a former minister whose name emerged in intelligence reviews. No formal charges or arrest warrants have been issued against the civilian yet, and the investigation continues.
The Defence Headquarters emphasized that the proceedings are disciplinary and preventive, aimed at dismantling the network, securing sensitive locations, and cutting off funding lines. Authorities stressed that swift action was necessary to avert potential threats to national security and maintain operational integrity within the Armed Forces.
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