Security agencies have uncovered extensive details of arms, ammunition, vehicles and cash recovered from military officers and civilians accused of plotting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s government.
More than 40 suspects were arrested in a covert intelligence operation coordinated by the Army Headquarters and the State Security Service (SSS). An inter-agency investigative panel, led by the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiandeye, has now concluded its probe into the failed coup attempt.
Findings from the investigation revealed a well-organised network involving reconnaissance, funding, logistics and propaganda units.
According to intelligence sources, investigators recovered two gun trucks, anti-aircraft (AA) guns, PKT machine guns, rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) bombs, AK-47 rifles, large quantities of ammunition and other tactical equipment. The weapons were reportedly traced to a lieutenant colonel attached to the Army’s 130 Battalion.
Security operatives also seized several vehicles allegedly acquired for covert operations. These include four Toyota Hilux trucks, one Toyota Prado SUV, two Toyota saloon cars, and 32 Volkswagen Golf vehicles.
Sources said the vehicles were used to move operatives discreetly, gather intelligence and gain access to sensitive locations such as airports and other strategic facilities without drawing attention.
“The vehicles enabled surveillance and reconnaissance linked to the plot,” a source familiar with the investigation disclosed.
The probe further identified a retired major general, Adamu, as one of the central figures in the network. He is currently at large, alongside three other suspects. Intelligence reports indicate that one of the fleeing suspects has been tracked to a country in South America, though exact details remain classified for security reasons.
Multiple security agencies are continuing joint operations to dismantle remaining cells connected to the plot, with active surveillance and cross-border intelligence cooperation underway.
Authorities are reportedly awaiting presidential approval to formally convene a court-martial for the military personnel involved. Sources said at least 25 serving officers and soldiers are expected to face trial, following earlier arrests of 16 officers before the expansion of the investigation.
Several civilians are also in custody and are being investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the SSS over alleged roles in financing, logistics and coordination.
Investigators have also accused a former governor and former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, of bankrolling the plot. He is said to have transferred nearly ₦1 billion in multiple tranches through accounts operated by a Bureau De Change agent to fund the conspiracy. He remains at large.
The coup was initially planned for 29 May 2023, during the presidential inauguration, but was reportedly shelved due to funding and logistical challenges. Investigators found that the conspirators revived the plan in 2024 after raising additional resources.
Security sources further revealed that the plot included plans to assassinate top political leaders and senior military officers, as well as to seize key locations such as the Presidential Villa, Niger Barracks, the Armed Forces of Nigeria headquarters and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The ultimate aim, according to investigators, was to install a military government.
The Defence Headquarters has confirmed that the investigation report has been transmitted to the appropriate authorities, noting that the actions of the implicated officers were incompatible with the ethics and professional standards of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.