Nollywood Actor Stanley Amandi Arrested Over Alleged Coup Plot Against President Tinubu
In a dramatic development that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria's entertainment and political circles, popular Nollywood actor and filmmaker Stanley Amandi has been arrested alongside several military officers over an alleged plot to violently overthrow President Bola Tinubu's administration. This marks the first public revelation of the actor's suspected involvement in what authorities describe as a serious threat to Nigeria's democratic order.
Actor Allegedly Recruited as Propagandist in Destabilization Scheme
Investigators revealed that Amandi, who previously served as chairperson of the Enugu state chapter of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, was reportedly recruited by the alleged coup plotters to act as a propagandist. Sources familiar with the investigation indicated that the suspects planned to use coordinated messaging and influence operations as part of a broader scheme to destabilize the government and legitimize a military takeover.
The alleged plot, according to government sources, included plans to assassinate top political leaders. Officials briefed on the investigation disclosed that President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas were among those allegedly marked for elimination during the planned takeover. "The intention was a violent overthrow of the democratic order, targeting the highest levels of government," a source familiar with the probe stated.
Military Confirms Investigation Completion and Impending Trials
On Monday, the Defence Headquarters confirmed that it had concluded comprehensive investigations into the alleged plan to illegally oust the Tinubu administration. In an official statement, the military said the investigation had been completed and forwarded to "appropriate superior authority in line with extant regulations."
The military described its findings as identifying "a number of officers with allegations of plotting to overthrow the government," characterizing such actions as "inconsistent with the ethics, values and professional standards required of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria." The probe was reportedly carried out in line with established procedures, examining all circumstances surrounding the conduct of the affected personnel.
Initial Arrests and Escalating Investigation
According to earlier reports, at least 16 military officers were under investigation as of October, though the army initially described the case as involving "indiscipline and breach of service regulations." Further investigations later led to the arrest of additional officers and civilians linked to the alleged plot.
Sources indicated that senior military officers implicated will first face court martial proceedings, while civilians involved, including Amandi, are expected to be tried in civil courts. This dual-track approach to prosecution underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the alleged conspiracy.
Profile of the Arrested Filmmaker
Stanley Amandi is a well-known figure in Nigeria's film industry, having featured in numerous Nollywood productions and worked extensively as an actor, production manager, and director over the years. His arrest represents one of the most high-profile cases of entertainment industry figures being implicated in political conspiracies in recent Nigerian history.
Neither Amandi nor his legal representatives have publicly responded to the allegations as of the time of this report. The case continues to develop as authorities prepare for legal proceedings against all suspects involved in the alleged coup plot.
