Sixteen Nigerian Officers Detained Over Alleged Coup Plot Targeting Tinubu

When Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, was slated to attend the 65th Independence Day ceremony on October 1, 2025, the parade at Aso Villa Parade Ground in Abuja never materialised. The next day, sixteen senior army officers were taken into custody on accusations they had plotted a coup aimed at unseating Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Background and Independence Day Context

Independence Day in Nigeria is usually a glittering affair – military parades, speeches, fireworks – a showcase of national unity. This year, however, the ceremony was abruptly cancelled, officially because the president had "bilateral commitments abroad". Critics quickly connected the dot: a sudden cancellation, a climate of political tension, and whispers of a secret military meeting.

According to reports from The Cable and Daily Trust, the alleged conspiracy involved officers ranging from captain to brigadier general, many of whom were linked to the Office of the National Security Adviser. The timing raised eyebrows because a similar pattern had unfolded in 2010 when a foiled plot led to a high‑profile reshuffle of senior officers.

Details of Arrests and Alleged Plot

On October 18‑19, 2025, the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) and other security organs acted on intelligence that suggested a meeting schedule, coded messages, and a rhetoric of "rescuing the nation from selfish politicians." The DIA brief, leaked to a local vlog, cited a meeting on September 28 at a private residence in Nasarawa State where the officers allegedly sketched out timelines for removing the civilian leadership.

The most prominent name surfacing was Lieutenant Colonel Al‑Makura, nephew of former two‑term Nasarawa Governor Umaru Tanko Al Makura (who also chairs the Universal Basic Education Commission). Al‑Makura had just completed a combat course in China and returned to Nigeria on October 10, sparking speculation that his recent training inspired the alleged scheme.

In a press briefing, a senior DIA official said, "We intercepted encrypted communications that referenced a "Operation Liberty" aimed at the highest echelons of government. The language was unmistakably treasonous." No formal charge of treason has been filed; the defence headquarters framed the detentions as disciplinary actions linked to "repeated failure in promotion examinations and perceived career stagnation."

Official Responses and Denials

The Defense Headquarters (DHQ) released a statement on October 19 denying any coup attempt, emphasizing that the arrests were purely administrative. "The sixteen officers are under investigation for internal military matters, not for plotting against the constitution," the statement read.

President Tinubu's office, speaking through a spokesperson on October 18, labeled the rumors "fake news" and warned that "ongoing speculation threatens national stability." The federal government echoed the DHQ stance, urging the media to rely on verified sources.

Meanwhile, an analysis by The Cable argued that a successful coup in Nigeria now faces "overwhelming civil‑society resistance, an empowered judiciary, and a professionalized armed forces" – a sentiment echoed by senior retired generals during a televised talk show.

Political Reactions and Public Concern

The opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) broke its usual silence on October 20, issuing a formal demand for transparency. "The Nigerian people deserve answers," ADC leader Bola Dan-Mahmoud said in a press conference, adding that the alleged involvement of "a former governor's relative" raised questions about nepotism and influence.

Human‑rights groups have also voiced unease. The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) released a brief warning that "detaining officers without charge can erode confidence in the rule of law, especially when the narrative is shrouded in secrecy."

Public sentiment, gauged through Twitter trends (@NigeriaCoup2025) and street interviews in Abuja's Wuse district, ranged from disbelief to anger. One commuter remarked, "If it's true, why are they calling it a promotion problem?" Another said, "We can't have the military playing politics again; we've seen the damage in the past."

Implications and Looking Ahead

While the immediate fallout is confined to the military brass, the episode could have ripple effects on Nigeria's already fragile economy. The World Bank warned that political instability could shave 0.5 % off the projected 2026 GDP growth of 2.8 %.

Legal scholars note that the Constitution provides for a civilian trial in cases of treason, yet the DHQ's framing may keep the matter within military courts, a move that could be challenged before the Supreme Court.

International observers, including the U.S. Department of State, have issued a cautious statement urging "all parties to respect democratic institutions and ensure due process." The next few weeks will likely see a series of disciplinary hearings, possible parliamentary inquiries, and heightened media scrutiny.

• Key Fact: Sixteen officers detained between October 18‑19, 2025.
• Key Fact: Lieutenant Colonel Al‑Makura identified as alleged mastermind.
• Key Fact: Official narrative cites promotion exam failures, not treason.
• Key Fact: Opposition ADC demands full disclosure of identities.
• Key Fact: No trial date set as of October 20, 2025.