Fresh details have emerged on the failed coup attempt against President Bola Tinubu’s administration, shedding light on how a serving Army Colonel allegedly assembled a covert, cross-service network before security agencies moved in to stop the plot.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) had earlier announced the arrest of 16 military officers for acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations, following weeks of internal tension within the Armed Forces.
Speculation about a possible coup first surfaced in October 2025 after rumours circulated widely on social media. Although the DHQ dismissed the claims as “false and misleading,” the abrupt cancellation of the Independence Day parade at the time heightened public suspicion.
However, findings from an interim investigation report sighted by Punch Newspapers indicate that the alleged plot was masterminded by an Army Colonel who reportedly became embittered after repeatedly failing promotion examinations. Investigators said he allegedly redirected his frustration into recruiting like-minded officers across the Army, Navy and Air Force.
According to the report, members of the group were allegedly tasked with discreet reconnaissance of strategic national assets, including the Presidential Villa, the Armed Forces Complex, Niger Barracks in Abuja, and international airports in Abuja and Lagos. These efforts reportedly focused on access routes, routines and potential security vulnerabilities.
Security sources said a search of the officer’s vehicle uncovered charms and anti-government materials, while a raid on his residence in Lokogoma, Apo, allegedly revealed sensitive documents outlining assigned roles and plans for dealing with top national figures once the operation commenced.
Investigators further alleged that the network exploited insider access by infiltrating the Presidential Villa and compromising workers linked to construction firm Julius Berger to obtain sensitive security information. Encrypted communication platforms were reportedly used to coordinate logistics, funding and planning, while unusual cash movements and vehicle repairs pointed to preparations for mobilisation.
Financial records allegedly showed inducements ranging from ₦2 million to ₦5 million paid to key participants, with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit now analysing the money trail.
One of the suspects, Lt-Col S. Bappah, reportedly became a key witness, providing investigators with detailed insights into recruitment methods, funding channels and communication strategies used by the group.
Security officials said the most troubling aspect of the plot was its cross-service nature, allegedly involving officers from the Army, Navy and Air Force, including some as senior as Brigadier-General.
The alleged plan, uncovered ahead of its proposed execution date of October 25, 2025, was described as extensive, with the President, Vice-President Kashim Shettima, ministers, service chiefs and other senior officials reportedly listed as targets.
Beyond the military, investigators are expanding the probe to identify possible civilian financiers and political links connected to the suspects. Authorities are reviewing communication logs, financial transactions and external contacts as part of efforts to dismantle the entire network.
With investigations concluded and reports submitted to higher authorities, the Defence Headquarters has confirmed that indicted personnel will face appropriate military judicial processes, as security agencies move to ensure the alleged plot does not progress beyond the planning stage.