DSS Takes Legal Action Against Coup Advocate
The Department of State Services (DSS) has initiated legal proceedings against a 27-year-old man for allegedly calling for the overthrow of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration. Innocent Chukwuemeka Onukwume now faces six criminal charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The case, registered as FHC/ABJ/CR/610/2025, represents the latest development in the government's crackdown on individuals advocating unconstitutional changes in leadership. DSS counsel A.M. Danalami presented the charges detailing Onukwume's alleged offenses.
Social Media Posts Spark Legal Battle
According to court documents, Onukwume used his X account (@theagroman) in October 2025 to publish posts explicitly calling for military intervention. Investigators claim the Rivers State resident made several inflammatory statements demanding the removal of the democratically elected government.
In one particularly controversial post, Onukwume allegedly wrote: "A coup in Nigeria is needed. Dispose of APC, suspend the Nigerian government, and join the AES. That is all we need now." Another post reportedly stated that only the military could "reset" the country, accusing the president of selling Nigeria to Western interests.
Legal Framework and Previous Coup Concerns
The DSS alleges that Onukwume's actions violate multiple laws, including Sections 46A(1) and 59(1) of the Criminal Code Act. Additionally, his social media activity contravenes Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2024 as amended.
This case emerges against the backdrop of recent security concerns regarding military loyalty. Earlier this year, sixteen senior military officers were detained over an alleged coup plot against President Tinubu's administration. Premium Times reported that fourteen army officers, plus one each from the Navy and Air Force, were involved in the investigation.
The Presidency has repeatedly warned that coup rumors damage Nigeria's international reputation and investor confidence. Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga previously urged media organizations to avoid sensational reporting and await verified security information before publishing such stories.
The Defence Headquarters has consistently affirmed the military's commitment to democratic governance, dismissing coup speculation as harmful to national stability. Onukwume's arraignment is expected to occur later this week as the judicial process unfolds.
