Defence Minister Christopher Musa Reveals He Was Target in Alleged Coup Plot
In a startling revelation, Nigeria's Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has disclosed that he was personally targeted in an alleged military coup plot against the government of President Bola Tinubu. The minister made these explosive statements during an appearance on the Sunday Politics program, shedding new light on the security threats facing the nation.
Targeted for Arrest and Potential Execution
General Musa, who previously served as Chief of Defence Staff before his ministerial appointment, revealed chilling details about the plot against him. "I was also a target, I am sure you know," the minister stated during the television interview. He elaborated further, disclosing that "I was supposed to be arrested, and if I refused, I was supposed to be shot." These revelations come from the Kaduna-born general who now oversees the nation's defence apparatus.
Background of the Alleged Coup Attempt
The disclosure follows the military's announcement last October regarding the arrest of sixteen officers for "acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations." Subsequent investigations revealed a more sinister dimension to these arrests. According to Director of Defence Information Samaila Uba, "Findings have identified a number of the officers with allegations of plotting to overthrow the government." Uba emphasized that such actions were "inconsistent with the ethics, values, and professional standards required of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria."
The military spokesperson confirmed that "those with cases to answer will be formally arraigned before an appropriate military judicial panel to face trial in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other applicable service regulations." This legal process represents the formal response to what authorities have characterized as a serious threat to Nigeria's democratic stability.
Broader Implications and Connections
Reports indicate that several senior government officials and prominent figures were identified as targets in the alleged conspiracy. The plot has been linked to significant security decisions, including:
- The cancellation of Nigeria's 65th Independence Anniversary parade
- A raid on the residence of former Bayelsa State governor Timipre Sylva over alleged connections to the plot
- Heightened security measures across government installations
Minister's Assessment of the Plotters
Reacting to the development, Minister Musa offered a scathing assessment of those allegedly involved in the plot. "I think these guys were a bunch of unserious individuals," he declared. The defence minister questioned their judgment, stating "If you look at the calibre of persons [involved in the attempted coup], I don't know what got into their heads to think they can take on the Armed Forces like that."
Musa expressed confidence in Nigeria's democratic resilience, noting that "Even Nigerians would have fought them. Nigerians have fought against military rule for quite some time." He highlighted President Tinubu's own history of opposing military rule, adding "Mr President has been one of them, so for them to wake up one morning and think they can do that in Nigeria, I think they need to reset their brain."
Historical Context and Regional Concerns
This alleged coup attempt occurs against a troubling backdrop of political instability in West Africa. Nigeria itself experienced a series of military coups between 1966 and 1993 before returning to democratic rule in 1999. The region has witnessed several recent military takeovers and attempted coups, including a reported attempt in neighbouring Benin Republic late last year.
The revelation by Defence Minister Musa underscores the ongoing challenges facing Nigeria's democratic institutions and the persistent threats from within the military establishment. As the nation prepares for the military trial of the arrested officers, this disclosure adds a personal dimension to what authorities describe as a serious threat to constitutional governance.
