How a Disgruntled Colonel Allegedly Built a Covert Network in Foiled Coup Plot Against Tinubu

Fresh intelligence from an interim investigation has provided new insight into the aborted coup plot against President Bola Tinubu’s administration, revealing how a serving Army Colonel allegedly organised a covert, cross-service network before security agencies intervened.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) had earlier announced the arrest of 16 military officers for acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations, following weeks of internal security concerns within the Armed Forces.

Speculation about a possible coup attempt surfaced in October 2025, spreading rapidly on social media. At the time, the DHQ described the claims as false, though the last-minute cancellation of the Independence Day parade heightened public concern.

According to findings from an interim report sighted by *Punch Newspapers*, investigators believe the alleged plot was initiated by a Colonel who had failed several promotion examinations. The report suggests that frustration over stalled career advancement led to growing resentment, which he allegedly used to attract like-minded officers across the Army, Navy and Air Force.

The investigation indicates that the group gradually evolved from informal discussions into coordinated activity. Members were reportedly tasked with observing key installations, including the Presidential Villa, the Armed Forces Complex, Niger Barracks in Abuja, and international airports in Abuja and Lagos, focusing on access routes and security routines.

Security officials said searches of the officer’s vehicle uncovered charms and materials critical of the government, while a raid on his residence in Lokogoma, Apo, allegedly yielded documents outlining operational roles and plans for handling senior national figures during the proposed operation.

Investigators further allege that the group exploited insider access to gather sensitive security information, including through compromised workers linked to a construction firm operating at the Presidential Villa. Encrypted communication platforms were reportedly used to coordinate logistics, funding and movement, while financial patterns such as unusual cash transfers and vehicle repairs pointed to preparations for mobilisation.

Financial inducements ranging from ₦2 million to ₦5 million were traced to some key participants. Intelligence agencies are now reviewing related transactions through the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit.

One of the suspects, Lt-Col S. Bappah, is reported to have cooperated with investigators, providing details on recruitment strategies, funding sources and communication structures within the network.

Security sources described the alleged plot as particularly concerning due to its cross-service nature, involving personnel from all three armed services and officers up to the rank of Brigadier-General. The plan, which investigators say was uncovered ahead of its proposed execution date of October 25, 2025, allegedly identified the President, Vice-President Kashim Shettima, service chiefs and other senior officials as targets.

Authorities have expanded the investigation beyond the military to examine potential civilian financiers and political contacts linked to the suspects. Communication records and financial flows are being reviewed as part of efforts to dismantle the network and safeguard critical national assets.

The Defence Headquarters has confirmed that, following the conclusion of investigations, all indicted personnel will face appropriate military judicial panels, as security agencies move to prevent any recurrence of what officials describe as a coordinated internal threat.