DSS Provides Official Clarification on Actor Stanley Amandi's Whereabouts
Fresh details have emerged regarding the arrest of prominent actor and filmmaker Stanley Amandi, with the Department of State Services (DSS) providing an official clarification to his family. Amandi, who previously served as chairman of the Enugu State chapter of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, was reportedly arrested in Enugu over alleged connections to a failed coup plot targeting President Bola Tinubu's administration.
Official Communication from Security Agencies
According to verified reports, Amandi's family and close associates initially believed the DSS had taken him into custody. However, days following his arrest, the DSS formally reached out to the actor's family with an important clarification. In an official communication, the security agency confirmed that while they are fully aware of the case, Stanley Amandi is actually being held by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA).
The DSS reportedly informed the family that Amandi was not in their custody, redirecting their inquiries to the military intelligence agency. This clarification has brought some administrative clarity to what had been a confusing situation for the actor's loved ones.
Family Concerns and Medical Requests
Following the DSS clarification, Amandi's family immediately contacted the DIA with specific requests regarding his welfare. Sources familiar with the situation revealed that the family formally requested permission for the actor's wife, legal representative, and personal medical doctor to visit him in custody.
These requests were made partly due to legitimate health concerns, as Stanley Amandi is reportedly hypertensive and requires regular medical attention. At the time of reporting, there had been no public confirmation regarding whether the DIA had granted these access requests to the detained actor's family members and medical professionals.
Investigation Details and Alleged Involvement
According to investigative reports, Stanley Amandi is alleged to have played a significant role on the media and messaging side of what authorities describe as a failed coup attempt. Security sources reportedly believe the actor was positioned to help shape public narratives that could potentially justify or promote an unconstitutional takeover of government.
This would make him a civilian collaborator in what security agencies have characterized as a serious breach of national security. The investigation reportedly began after a concerned military officer alerted senior leadership about suspicious meetings and conversations among certain personnel.
Broader Security Context and Political Reactions
While the alleged coup plot first surfaced months ago through discreet arrests within military ranks, deeper investigations later revealed a wider network of collaborators extending beyond military personnel. Intelligence gathered by security agencies allegedly confirmed attempts by some officers to destabilize Nigeria's democratic order.
Further findings suggested discussions about targeting top political figures, including President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas. Political reactions have emerged, with APC chieftain Joe Igbokwe previously commenting on the situation, emphasizing the seriousness with which authorities are treating the matter.
The case continues to develop as security agencies maintain their investigations into what they describe as a serious threat to Nigeria's democratic stability and national security architecture.
