An interim investigation into the alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu’s government has implicated a serving Army Colonel as the coordinator of a sophisticated conspiracy targeting the President, Vice President Kashim Shettima, ministers, and key national installations.
The probe, sighted by The PUNCH on Tuesday, also traces recruitment, funding, and operational planning directly to the officer.
Alleged Plot Details
The report indicates the Colonel, reportedly frustrated by repeated failures in promotion, mobilised like-minded officers across the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The officers were allegedly assigned to conduct covert surveillance of critical sites, including:
• The Presidential Villa
• Armed Forces Complex, Abuja
• Niger Barracks
• Major international airports in Lagos and Abuja
Investigators said the conspiracy went beyond casual dissent and had entered early operational stages, including plans for violent action against government officials.
Arrests and Interrogations
In October 2025, the Defence Headquarters announced the arrest of 16 military officers over disciplinary breaches. They included ranks from Captain to Brigadier General. Investigations revealed that the officers had allegedly held secret meetings to topple the government, which coincided with the cancellation of the October 1 Independence Day parade.
The interim investigation report describes the Colonel as the main figure providing:
• Funding (ranging from ₦2 million to ₦5 million for logistics and mobilisation)
• Recruitment of sympathetic officers
• Motivation, often citing grievances over stalled promotions
Searches of the Colonel’s vehicle reportedly uncovered charms and anti-government materials, while raids on his residence in Lokogoma, Apo yielded sensitive documents detailing operational roles and targeting of key national dignitaries.
Key Suspects and Cooperation
The officers currently in custody include:
Brig Gen M. A. Sadiq, Col M. A. Maaji, Lt Col S. Bappah, Lt Col A.A. Hayatu, Lt Col P. Dangnap, Lt Col M. Almakura, Maj A. J. Ibrahim, Maj M. M. Jiddah, Maj M.A. Usman, Maj D. Yusuf, Capt I. Bello, Capt A.A. Yusuf, Lt S.S. Felix, Lt Cdr D.B. Abdullahi, Sqn Ldr S.B. Adamu, and Maj I. Dauda.
Investigators said Lt Col Bappah has emerged as a critical witness, cooperating fully by providing details on funding flows, recruitment, and communication networks.
Method of Coordination
The report notes that encrypted messaging platforms, including WhatsApp and Zangi, were used for planning, while discrete vehicle repairs and fund movements suggested early logistical preparations. Investigators also identified links to civilians, financiers, and political contacts potentially connected to the network.
National Security Implications
The foiled coup was allegedly planned for October 25, 2025, with intended actions against top government officials. Investigators described the network as cross-service, well-funded, and highly coordinated, with elevated risks to national stability if not intercepted.
The Defence Headquarters said the indicted officers will be arraigned before a military judicial panel, while the investigation continues to track additional suspects, including potential political and civilian collaborators.
Ongoing Probe
Security sources indicated that the probe has extended beyond military personnel to examine:
• Financial flows supporting the plot
• Communication trails between suspects
• Possible political linkages, including mentions of a former minister who has been outside the country
The interim report concludes that swift preventive measures were necessary to secure sensitive locations and dismantle the network before it could pose a significant threat to national security.
Source: Africa Publicity
