How Ex-Governor Financed Military Officers Accused of Plotting Coup to Overthrow Tinubu — Sources
According to a report by Daily Trust, security operatives suspect that the unnamed ex-governor may have provided financial and logistical support to the detained officers, who were allegedly planning to carry out the coup on October 25.
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How Ex-Governor Financed Military Officers Accused of Plotting Coup to Overthrow Tinubu — Sources
A former governor from one of Nigeria’s southern states is reportedly under investigation for allegedly financing a group of military officers accused of plotting to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
According to a report by Daily Trust, security operatives suspect that the unnamed ex-governor may have provided financial and logistical support to the detained officers, who were allegedly planning to carry out the coup on October 25.
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16 Military Officers in Custody
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) had earlier confirmed the arrest of 16 officers for what it described as “indiscipline and breach of service regulations.” However, multiple sources told Daily Trust and Sahara Reporters that the officers are being held over an alleged coup attempt.
Among those detained are a Brigadier-General, a Colonel, and several junior officers, including personnel reportedly attached to the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
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“Yes, that is true,” one security source confirmed when asked about the authenticity of the coup plot. “There are civilian accomplices, including a former governor, but the extent of their involvement is being investigated. For now, there are 16 officers in custody.”
The former governor under probe is said to have a background in the oil and gas sector. Investigators are reportedly combing through his communications with the detained officers and may summon him for questioning if incriminating links are established.
Elite Probe Panel Constituted
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The investigation is being coordinated by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), with senior representatives from the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
“Members of the probe panel are very senior officers, headed by a Major General. The comprehensive list of officers being investigated is highly guarded,” another source disclosed.
Further findings suggest that the Brigadier-General in custody hails from Niger State, while the Colonel is from Nasarawa State and comes from a prominent family linked to former Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura.
Family members of the detained officers expressed concern. “The wife of the officer is worried. Our prayer is that they are not found guilty of the allegation,” a relative said.
DHQ Denies Coup Claims
Despite mounting reports, the DHQ has denied that it ever referred to the arrests as a coup plot. In a statement by its Director of Defence Information, Brigadier-General Tukur Gusau, the military said rumours linking the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary parade to a coup scare were “false and misleading.”
According to the statement, the parade was shelved because President Tinubu was scheduled for an international engagement, and to maintain focus on ongoing security operations.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the DHQ declared.
Nigerians Demand Transparency
However, many Nigerians on social media are demanding more clarity from the military regarding the arrests.
“Dear military, kindly avail Nigerians specific offences these people committed before you kpai them. There is no smoke without fire,” one user, Adelabi Gbenga, posted.
Another commenter, Edidiong Jackson, wrote: “Breach of service regulations? Tell us the exact breach. Don’t put us in darkness.”
High-Stakes Investigation Ongoing
With reports that more officers and politicians from both northern and southern regions may be questioned, all eyes are now on the military’s next move.
[Daily Trust]
