The Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) has reportedly detained sixteen senior officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces, including a Brigadier-General, over an alleged plan to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
According to credible sources cited by SaharaReporters, the detained officers were apprehended following intelligence reports indicating that they held secret meetings to organize a coup d’état against the current civilian government.
Military Issues Official Statement
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Nigerian military confirmed the arrest of the officers but described the situation as a routine disciplinary action rather than a coup-related matter.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria wishes to inform the public that a routine military exercise has resulted in the arrest of sixteen officers over issues of indiscipline and breach of service regulations,” the statement read.
General Gusau further explained that investigations revealed the officers’ grievances stemmed from “perceived career stagnation” following repeated failures in promotion examinations. He added that some of them were already facing disciplinary proceedings for previous offences deemed incompatible with military service ethics.
Insiders Disclose Alleged Coup Motive
However, sources within the Defence Intelligence Agency disputed the military’s official explanation, insisting that the detained officers were indeed plotting a military takeover.
According to a senior intelligence officer involved in the operation, the group was led by a Brigadier-General and consisted of personnel ranging from Captain to Brigadier-General.
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“The sixteen officers were planning to overthrow the government. Intelligence gathering by the DIA and other security agencies exposed the plot before it could be executed,” the source disclosed.
“They were all picked up from their various residences and are currently being held at the DIA headquarters in Abuja.”
Independence Day Parade Allegedly Cancelled Due to Security Threat
Further reports suggest that the alleged coup plot influenced the cancellation of Nigeria’s Independence Day parade on October 1, 2025.
A top security source revealed that intelligence reports indicated the conspirators planned to strike during the event.
“Their plan was to attack during the military parade by targeting the President and top government officials. That was why the National Security Adviser and the service chiefs advised the government to cancel the celebration,” the source stated.
Background of Military Discontent
Nigeria has experienced five successful coups since gaining independence in 1960. Recent internal concerns, including allegations of corruption and poor welfare conditions, have reportedly led to growing frustration within the armed forces.
Security analysts have warned that if confirmed, this latest development reflects deep-seated dissatisfaction among certain military ranks and underscores the urgent need for reforms in military administration and personnel welfare.