Another Army General Arrested Over Alleged Plot Against President Tinubu

Another high-profile figure has been detained in the ongoing investigation into an alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu. Retired Army General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, from Niger State and the Danmagayaki of Nupe, was arrested alongside military officers and civilians, Sahara Reporters reports.

The arrest follows that of Gana’s son, Lieutenant Colonel Sadiq Ibrahim-Gana, commanding officer of 115 Battalion in Askira, Borno State, who has been in military custody for a week. Ibrahim-Gana is among 35 military personnel currently detained for allegedly planning to overthrow the government.

A military source said Gana’s role stems from his past connection to Colonel Alhassan Ma’aji, the alleged mastermind of the plot. “Being Ma’aji’s godfather, authorities believe he was aware of the plan,” the source said. “There is no evidence linking him beyond that.”

Civilians, including mechanics and a Julius Berger employee, have also been arrested for allegedly assisting the plotters. Earlier, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, a police officer from Taraba State, was taken into DIA custody in Abuja.

The detainees include 1 Brigadier General, 2 Colonels, 5 Lieutenant Colonels, 1 Wing Commander, 8 Majors, 1 Lieutenant Commander, 2 Squadron Leaders, 5 Captains, 1 Lieutenant, and 10 non-commissioned officers. Most are from northern Nigeria, with a few from the FCT, Osun, and Bayelsa States.

The Defence Intelligence Agency coordinated the arrests after weeks of surveillance. The Defence Headquarters had initially dismissed reports of a coup but now acknowledges that allegations of plotting against the government were part of the investigation.

Families of detainees have raised concerns over prolonged detention, limited access to lawyers, and harsh conditions. Some officers reportedly fell ill while in custody.

Political attention has also focused on the Abuja residence of former Minister Timipre Sylva, who confirmed a DIA visit but denied any involvement, describing attempts to link him to the case as politically motivated.