An interim investigation report has identified a serving Army Colonel as the central figure allegedly coordinating a plot to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government.
The findings were disclosed on Tuesday, January 28, 2026, and follow arrests of multiple military officers in late 2025 over alleged misconduct linked to the conspiracy.
In October 2025, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) announced the detention of 16 military officers over alleged acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations.
At the time, the military described the matter as internal disciplinary issues. Investigative reporting later linked the arrests to an alleged coup plot against the Tinubu administration.
The interim report, sighted by the PUNCH, shows that the alleged plot went beyond casual dissent. Investigators said the appointed Army Colonel, whose identity was withheld, was responsible for funding, recruiting and directing like‑minded officers within the Army, Navy and Air Force.
According to the interim findings, the alleged mastermind’s repeated failures in promotion examinations allegedly fuelled his disaffection and provided motivation to recruit others sharing similar grievances.
The report said those involved had conducted covert surveillance of critical national installations including the Presidential Villa, Armed Forces Complex and major international airports in Abuja and Lagos.
Investigators also reported that searches of the Colonel’s vehicle and residence uncovered charms, anti‑government materials and sensitive documents outlining roles and responsibilities for principal actors in the conspiracy.
Financial inducements between ₦2 million and ₦5 million were allegedly provided to some participants to support logistics and mobilisation.
The alleged plot was reportedly slated for October 25, 2025, and would have targeted President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, senior ministers, service chiefs and other top officials.
Security sources say encrypted communication channels and encrypted messaging platforms were used to coordinate activities among alleged plotters.
In the interim report, investigators stated: “Multiple testimonies implicate Col (name withheld) as the coordinator of the conspiracy. He has been identified as the source of funding, recruitment and motivation.”
The revelations add urgency to national discussions on military discipline, internal security and the protection of democratic governance.
Analysts note that involvement of officers from all three arms of the armed forces and the detailed operational planning described in the report, if verified through formal processes, could influence public confidence in national security institutions.
The Defence Headquarters has indicated that the officers with cases to answer will be arraigned before appropriate military judicial panels in line with the Armed Forces Act.
The interim investigation report identifying a serving Army Colonel as the alleged orchestrator of a plot to oust President Tinubu highlights significant security challenges within Nigeria’s armed forces.
As formal legal processes proceed, the findings are likely to shape ongoing discourse on constitutional order, military accountability and national stability ahead of the 2027 general elections.
