Names Of Alleged Coup Plotters Released As Nigeria Uncovers Coordinated Military Conspiracy
Nigeria’s security establishment has released the names of military officers allegedly involved in a foiled coup plot aimed at overthrowing the government and assassinating top national leaders, following the conclusion of an interim investigation into the conspiracy.
According to security reports, 16 serving officers across the Army, Navy, and Air Force are currently in custody. They include Brigadier-General M. A. Sadiq; Colonel M. A. Maaji; Lieutenant Colonels S. Bappah, A. A. Hayatu, P. Dangnap, and M. Almakura; Majors A. J. Ibrahim, M. M. Jiddah, M. A. Usman, D. Yusuf, and I. Dauda; Captains I. Bello and A. A. Yusuf; Lieutenant S. S. Felix; Navy Lieutenant Commander D. B. Abdullahi; and Squadron Leader S. B. Adamu.
Two additional officers—Major J. M. Ganaks and Captain G. Binuga—are reportedly being awaited by investigators.
Security sources said the alleged coup, planned for October 25, 2025, was intended to be violent, with President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, ministers, service chiefs, and other senior government officials reportedly marked for elimination.
Read Also: Interim Report Uncovers Alleged Military Coup Plot Targeting Tinubu, Shettima, Key National Assets
Investigators described the plot as a coordinated and well-funded conspiracy involving serving officers from multiple arms of the Armed Forces, aimed at undermining constitutional authority and seizing power. Intelligence reports indicate that financial inducements ranging from ₦2 million to ₦5 million were allegedly distributed to key actors, while encrypted platforms such as WhatsApp and Zangi were used to coordinate logistics and communication.
The investigation further revealed that funds were allegedly disbursed by a senior officer identified as the coordinator of the plot, with at least one major financier now under scrutiny. A detailed financial trail is currently being analysed in collaboration with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU).
One of the suspects, Lieutenant Colonel S. Bappah, has reportedly emerged as a critical witness. Investigators said he is cooperating fully, providing insights into recruitment strategies, funding channels, and communication methods—testimony described as pivotal to strengthening the case.
The interim report warned that the threat level was heightened by the cross-service nature of the network, the involvement of senior-ranking officers, and the identification of strategic installations for seizure—elements consistent with deliberate coup-style planning.
While investigations continue, security agencies said swift preventive action was necessary to dismantle the network, secure sensitive facilities, and disrupt funding lines sustaining the alleged plot. Authorities also confirmed that probes have expanded to include civilian contacts, financiers, and possible political links, stressing that due diligence—not presumption of guilt—remains the guiding principle.