Fresh Details Emerge on Alleged Coup Plot to Seize Aso Rock and Eliminate Tinubu
New revelations have surfaced regarding a suspected coup conspiracy aimed at overthrowing Nigeria's government, with investigators detailing an elaborate plan to capture the Presidential Villa, eliminate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and dismantle key national structures. According to a report published on March 19, 2026, the plot involved at least 40 suspects and targeted high-profile political and military figures in a highly coordinated operation.
Targeted Assault on Presidential Villa and Key Officials
At the heart of the alleged conspiracy was a scheme to overrun Aso Rock, Nigeria's seat of power in Abuja, and apprehend President Tinubu along with Vice President Kashim Shettima. Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas were also marked for capture, with sources indicating they faced potential elimination. Investigators identified specific officers assigned to lead the assault, forming what was described as a decapitation unit designed to paralyze the nation's leadership.
The plot extended beyond political leaders to include security chiefs such as National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, former Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, and Department of State Services director-general Adeola Ajayi. These individuals were classified as high-value targets, highlighting the breadth of the conspiracy aimed at crippling Nigeria's governance and security apparatus.
Coordinated Military Takeover of Strategic Abuja Sites
The operation was structured as a full-scale military takeover, with units tasked to seize multiple strategic installations simultaneously. While one team focused on the Presidential Villa, another was designated to capture the Niger Barracks, a critical military formation housing top military chiefs. Additional units were assigned to secure the Armed Forces of Nigeria Complex in Garki District and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, effectively cutting off military coordination and escape routes.
Investigators disclosed that officers like Lieutenant Colonel S. Bappah were tasked with eliminating the Chief of Defence Staff, while others targeted service chiefs and the Commander of the Guards Brigade. This phase aimed to prevent organized resistance and ensure swift control over Abuja, with sources describing the plan as highly coordinated, with clear command structures, targets, and timelines.
Network of Suspects and Weapons Recoveries
The alleged conspiracy involved a network of at least 40 suspects, including senior military officers such as Brigadier General M.A. Sadiq and Colonel Mohammed Ma'aji, who was identified as a key leader. Other named individuals included lieutenant colonels, majors, and captains from various units, along with civilians in support roles. Among them were Umoru Zekeri, an electrician at the Presidential Villa; Ali Isah, an ambulance driver; and Nollywood actor Stanley Kingsley Amandi, allegedly recruited for propaganda efforts.
Security agencies recovered a significant cache of weapons and assets linked to the plot, including gun trucks, anti-aircraft weapons, RPGs, machine guns, and large quantities of ammunition. Dozens of vehicles, such as Toyota Hilux trucks and Volkswagen Golfs, were also seized, indicating serious intent and preparedness for rapid deployment within Abuja. The scale of these recoveries underscored how close the plot may have come to execution.
Investigation and Responses from Authorities
The suspects were arrested in a covert joint operation by the Army Headquarters and the DSS, with many remaining in detention. The Defence Headquarters has confirmed that investigations are complete and findings have been submitted to higher authorities, describing the alleged conduct as a serious breach of military ethics and professional standards. However, families of the detained suspects have contested the authorities' account, claiming their relatives have been held for over 160 days without a fair hearing.
Notably, two high-profile figures—a retired major general and former Bayelsa State governor Timipre Sylva—have been named in connection with the network and are currently at large. The involvement of a Nollywood actor in the plot adds a unique dimension, with Amandi arrested in September 2025 alongside military officers accused of plotting to overthrow Tinubu's administration.
This unfolding saga highlights ongoing security challenges in Nigeria, as authorities work to address threats to national stability while ensuring due process in legal proceedings.
