Nigerian authorities have confirmed what was initially denied in October 2025: a serious coup attempt targeting President Bola Tinubu's administration. The Defence Headquarters publicly acknowledged the investigation in January 2026 after months of speculation.
According to Premium Times, security agencies have identified 40 suspects in connection with the conspiracy to violently overthrow the government. The suspects include senior military officers across the armed forces, a police officer, and civilians allegedly involved in reconnaissance, funding, and propaganda operations.
Defence Minister Was Target
In a startling revelation on Channels Television's Sunday Politics, Defence Minister General Christopher Musa disclosed that he was personally targeted by the coup plotters. "I was also a target, I am sure you know. I was supposed to be arrested, and if I refused, I was supposed to be shot," Musa stated.
The minister described the alleged plotters as "unserious individuals" but confirmed the threat was real enough to trigger swift action. At least 16 serving military officers, including a brigadier general and a colonel, are currently in custody and expected to face a military tribunal.
Plot Details Emerge
Investigation reports indicate the conspirators initially planned to disrupt the handover of power from former President Muhammadu Buhari to President Tinubu on May 29, 2023. The plot reportedly included plans to assassinate key political and military figures, including the Vice President, Senate President, and senior commanders.
As reported by ThisDay, the plotters relied on informants within the Presidential Villa to monitor movements of targeted officials, with plans to seize control of strategic locations including the Presidential Villa, Niger Barracks, and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
Regional Context
The attempted coup comes amid a resurgence of military takeovers in West Africa. Since the Nigerian plot was foiled, there have been attempted power grabs in Benin and a successful takeover in Guinea-Bissau, raising concerns about democratic stability across the region.
