At least sixteen senior military officers have been arrested over an alleged plot to overthrow the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, according to a report by SaharaReporters.
The officers, who reportedly range from the rank of Captain to Brigadier General, were picked up in a series of coordinated operations by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) and other security agencies across multiple locations in the country.
Although the Defence Headquarters (Nigeria) initially described the arrests as a “routine military exercise” linked to “issues of indiscipline and breach of service regulations,” senior military sources suggested that the official statement was deliberately softened to prevent widespread panic.
“The 16 officers were planning a coup. The military authorities were just being diplomatic in the statement released by the spokesperson,” a senior DIA official was quoted as saying.
“They had begun holding secret meetings to overthrow the President and announce a military government.”
In its earlier official statement, the Director of Defence Information, Tukur Gusau, explained that the detention followed internal investigations into misconduct and disobedience.
“Investigations have revealed that their grievances stemmed largely from perceived career stagnation caused by repeated failure in promotion examinations, among other issues,” Gusau stated.
“Some of the apprehended officers had been under jurisdiction for various offences, either awaiting or undergoing trial. Their conduct was deemed incompatible with the standards of military service.”
However, insiders insist the arrests are directly tied to a foiled coup attempt, reportedly intercepted through classified communications and intelligence monitoring.
A top security source revealed that the conspirators had allegedly planned to execute the plot during the October 1 Independence Day parade, targeting President Tinubu and other senior government officials.
“Yes, they were arrested for planning to stage a coup and take over government,” the source confirmed. “That was why the Independence Day parade marking the country’s 65th anniversary was abruptly cancelled. Intelligence indicated they intended to strike during the event.”
According to the source, the Nuhu Ribadu-led National Security Adviser’s office, in collaboration with service chiefs, advised the Presidency to cancel the parade after confirming credible threats and identifying the alleged coup plotters’ movements.
Nigeria has a long and troubled history with military coups. Since gaining independence in 1960, the country has experienced five successful coups and several failed attempts, each leaving lasting scars on its democratic trajectory.
The latest development has heightened public anxiety amid growing economic hardship and mounting security challenges. Observers warn that increasing discontent within the military ranks could pose fresh threats to Nigeria’s fragile democracy if not decisively addressed.
