Military Investigation Concludes: Brigadier General Linked to Foiled Coup Plot Against Tinubu
Fresh details have emerged from the Nigerian military regarding a foiled coup plot against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, with authorities confirming that investigations have been formally concluded. The Defence Headquarters has officially linked serving Brigadier General Musa Sadiq to the alleged conspiracy, marking a significant development in the high-profile security matter that has captured national attention.
Investigation Findings and Official Confirmation
According to military statements issued on Thursday, 26 January, the comprehensive investigation into the attempted overthrow of the government has reached its conclusion. The Defence Headquarters confirmed that a number of officers were found culpable of allegations bordering on plotting to overthrow the government. The military emphasized that the conduct of these indicted officers was inconsistent with the ethics, values and professional standards required of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Military authorities stated that those with cases to answer will be formally arraigned before appropriate military judicial panels to face trial in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other applicable service regulations. This formal confirmation comes approximately two months after initial reports of the coup plot surfaced, during which time the military had maintained a cautious approach to public disclosure.
Brigadier General Musa Sadiq's Alleged Involvement
Brigadier General Musa Sadiq, service number N/10321, has been specifically identified in intelligence briefs as a suspected figure in the plot. However, military officials familiar with the investigation have clarified that the core allegations against General Sadiq differ from those levelled against other primary suspects. Sources described his role as that of an accessory rather than a direct participant in the planning or execution of the coup.
Investigators revealed that General Sadiq was informed in advance of the coup plan by officers directly involved but failed to report the information to the appropriate authorities. A military source explained the nature of the allegation: He was aware of what was being planned but chose not to act. That failure to report constitutes a serious breach of military conduct. This distinction places him in a different category from those accused of active participation in the conspiracy.
Background and Wider Arrests
Brigadier General Sadiq was among sixteen senior military officers arrested and detained in October last year over their alleged roles in the foiled plot. Security sources indicate that this attempted overthrow contributed to the cancellation of the 1 October Independence Day parade, a decision that initially raised questions about security preparations.
Of those detained:
- Fourteen are officers of the Nigerian Army
- One officer is from the Nigerian Navy
- One officer is from the Nigerian Air Force
Investigations later expanded to include additional officers and some civilians, indicating the breadth of the security operation. The gravity of the allegations triggered sweeping changes at the top of the armed forces, with President Tinubu dismissing several service chiefs while retaining only Olufemi Oluyede and Emmanuel Undiendeye in their positions.
General Sadiq's Military Career and Past Controversies
Brigadier General Musa Sadiq was born on 3 January 1974 and hails from Nasarawa State. His military career includes:
- Training at the Nigerian Defence Academy between August 1992 and September 1997 as a member of Regular Course 44
- Belonging to the infantry corps
- Rising to colonel in 2015 and attaining brigadier general rank in 2019
- Holding key command positions including Commander of the 3rd Brigade in Kano
- Serving as Garrison Commander of the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army in Lagos
This is not the first time General Sadiq has come under official scrutiny. In October 2024, he was reportedly detained over allegations of gross misconduct, including:
- Diversion of rice palliatives
- Sale of military equipment such as generator sets
- Sale of operational vehicles to scrap dealers
Although those allegations are separate from the current coup-related case, they have resurfaced as part of a broader review of his service record. Military authorities have yet to issue a detailed public update on his current status, and General Sadiq has not responded publicly to the allegations. Sources indicate that due process and military justice procedures are ongoing.
Initial Military Response and Political Context
At the early stage of the arrests, military authorities initially downplayed the coup allegations, stating that the officers were merely being investigated for indiscipline and breach of service regulations. This cautious approach reflected the sensitivity of the matter and the potential implications for national security and international perceptions.
The investigation unfolded amid rising political and diplomatic tension, including controversial claims of Christian persecution in Nigeria by United States President Donald Trump. The security situation also saw personnel changes at the highest levels, with Christopher Musa being recalled and appointed Minister of Defence, replacing Muhammed Badaru, who resigned citing health reasons.
Military authorities continue to emphasize their commitment to due process and adherence to established legal frameworks as they proceed with the next phases of this significant security matter.
