Nigerian Defence Intelligence Detains Brigadier-General, 15 Others Over Alleged Coup Plot Against Tinubu

At least sixteen senior military officers have been detained by the Armed Forces of Nigeria over an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu, SaharaReporters has learnt.

While the military publicly claimed the arrests were related to “disciplinary issues and career stagnation,” sources within the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) confirmed that the officers, led by a Brigadier-General, were allegedly planning a coup.

“Their plan was to topple the government, citing frustration with selfish politicians,” a top DIA source said, adding that the plot was foiled through intelligence gathering by the agency and its counterparts.

According to the source, the officers—ranging from Captains to a Brigadier-General—were arrested at their homes across the country and are currently being held at the DIA headquarters.

Another source disclosed that the cancellation of the October 1 Independence Day parade was connected to the foiled coup attempt. Intelligence reportedly indicated that the conspirators intended to strike during the event by attacking the President and top government officials.

“The decision to cancel the parade was made to prevent the attack and manage public tension,” the source explained.

Since Nigeria’s independence in 1960, the country has witnessed five successful military coups. Recent reports of corruption and discontent within the ranks have further deepened frustrations among some officers.