By MUHAMMAD DANBABA
Investigation Into Alleged Coup Plot Against Tinubu Deepens
The Nigerian military has made fresh arrests in connection with an alleged coup plot against Tinubu, intensifying an investigation that has quietly unfolded since 2025.
Security sources confirmed that Major H. Yusuf of the Nigerian Army, a member of the 57 Regular Course, is among the latest officers taken into custody. He recently completed his Senior Course at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, before his arrest.
Authorities have yet to release full details of the alleged conspiracy. However, insiders say the investigation into the alleged coup plot against Tinubu has expanded in scope, with more officers now under scrutiny.
Although arrests began months ago, no formal court-martial has commenced. Meanwhile, the military has maintained that due process will guide the prosecution of any officer found culpable.
Defence Minister Says He Was Marked For Elimination
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), who previously served as Chief of Defence Staff, disclosed that he was among senior officials allegedly targeted in the plot.
Speaking on a televised political programme, he said the alleged conspirators planned to arrest him and shoot him if he resisted.
“I was also a target. I was supposed to be arrested, and if I refused, I was supposed to be shot,” he said.
His revelation followed confirmation from the Armed Forces that some of the 16 officers arrested in October 2025 would face prosecution over their alleged involvement in the coup plot against Tinubu.
General Musa dismissed the suspects as lacking the capacity to destabilise the country, insisting that the Nigerian military remains professional and loyal to constitutional authority.
From ‘Indiscipline’ To Coup Allegations
Initially, in October 2025, the military announced the arrest of 16 officers for what it described as indiscipline and breaches of service regulations.
However, by January 2026, authorities said further investigations uncovered evidence suggesting that some of the detained officers had engaged in activities aimed at destabilising the government.
In an official statement, Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, said certain actions taken by the suspects contradicted the ethics and professional standards required of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
He added that any officer found to have a case to answer would face a military judicial panel in line with the Armed Forces Act.
Reports suggest the alleged coup plot against Tinubu extended beyond military personnel, with several high-profile political figures reportedly listed as potential targets.
Some observers have also linked the alleged plot to the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary parade, though authorities have not officially confirmed any connection.
Expanding Arrests Across Military Ranks
SaharaReporters earlier disclosed that at least 35 military officers were detained over the alleged coup plot against Tinubu. The detained officers reportedly cut across ranks and services, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Among those detained are a Brigadier General, two Colonels, five Lieutenant Colonels, several Majors, Squadron Leaders, Captains, and non-commissioned officers.
Additionally, a police officer identified as Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim from Taraba State was reportedly arrested in Abuja by operatives of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA).
Sources said the arrests followed coordinated intelligence operations after weeks of covert surveillance.
While the Defence Headquarters initially denied any link between the arrests and a coup attempt, subsequent statements acknowledged that some suspects were under investigation for actions inconsistent with constitutional order.
Allegations Of Harsh Detention Conditions
Concerns have also emerged over the welfare of detained officers. According to reports, at least five officers reportedly fell ill while in custody, with two said to have collapsed due to deteriorating conditions.
Families of the detained officers have raised alarm over alleged incommunicado detention and restricted access to legal counsel. Some relatives claim authorities transferred the suspects between facilities without notice.
However, military authorities have not publicly addressed these specific allegations.
Historical Context And Regional Climate
Nigeria experienced multiple military coups between 1966 and 1993 before returning to civilian rule in 1999. Since then, the country has sustained democratic governance despite persistent security and political challenges.
The alleged coup plot against Tinubu emerges at a time when parts of West Africa have witnessed military takeovers and attempted coups. Neighbouring countries have faced instability, heightening regional security concerns.
Nevertheless, Nigerian defence authorities insist that the country’s armed forces remain committed to democratic principles and constitutional order.
What Happens Next?
As investigations continue, the military has pledged transparency within the limits of national security considerations. Officials say formal arraignment will proceed once investigations conclude.
For now, many details surrounding the alleged coup plot against Tinubu remain undisclosed. Yet the arrests signal a firm stance by the military leadership against any perceived threat to constitutional governance.
Political analysts argue that how authorities manage the prosecution process will shape public confidence in both the military justice system and Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
While questions linger, one fact stands clear: the Nigerian military has moved decisively in response to what it describes as a serious threat to national stability.
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