Defence Minister Exposes Personal Threat in Foiled Coup Attempt Against Tinubu Government
In a startling revelation, Nigeria's Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has disclosed that he was personally targeted by individuals allegedly plotting to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration. The retired general, who previously served as Chief of Defence Staff, made these comments during an exclusive interview on Channels Television's Sunday Politics program on February 1, 2026.
"I Was Also a Target" - Defence Minister's Chilling Account
General Musa revealed the specific threat against his life, stating that the suspected coup plotters had planned to arrest him, with instructions to shoot him if he resisted their authority. "I was also a target. I was supposed to be arrested, and if I refused, I was supposed to be shot," the Defence Minister explained during the televised interview.
Despite the personal danger, Musa maintained a professional perspective on the situation. "But that's the job. And anybody who goes into a coup, I mean, zeroes his mind because you know, you succeed good, you don't succeed, whatever consequences come, you're ready for it."
Military Response and Ongoing Investigations
The Nigerian military had previously announced in October 2025 that sixteen officers would face trial for their alleged involvement in the coup plot against President Tinubu's government. This development follows extensive investigations by security agencies, including the Nigerian Army and Department of State Services (DSS), who have apprehended over forty suspects connected to the alleged conspiracy.
Key suspect Major General Adamu remains at large along with three other individuals, according to security sources. Investigators have conducted significant operations resulting in the recovery of substantial arms, ammunition, and vehicles, demonstrating what appears to be an elaborate intelligence-gathering effort against the alleged plotters.
Defence Minister Questions Coup Plotters' Seriousness
General Musa expressed bewilderment at the alleged plotters' mindset, describing them as "very unserious individuals." He questioned their strategic thinking, stating, "If you look at the calibre of the individuals, if you look at, I don't know what's got into their heads to think that they could take on the armed forces like that."
The Defence Minister further emphasized that even without military intervention, Nigerian citizens would have resisted any attempt to overthrow the government. "What I even said was that even Nigerians would have fought them. Even without the armed forces, Nigerians would have stood against them. Remember, Nigerians have fought against military rule for quite some time."
Public Reaction and National Security Implications
The revelation has sparked significant public discourse across Nigeria, with citizens expressing diverse opinions on social media platforms and public forums. Many Nigerians have condemned the alleged coup attempt while others have called for thorough investigations and appropriate legal consequences for those involved.
Security analysts note that this incident highlights ongoing challenges in Nigeria's democratic consolidation and the importance of maintaining robust intelligence capabilities to protect constitutional governance. The alleged plot reportedly involved senior military officers and civilians connected to reconnaissance operations, funding mechanisms, and propaganda efforts.
Controversial aspects of the investigation include reports that certain high-profile government officials were marked for assassination, with President Tinubu himself identified as a primary target according to security briefings. The Defence Minister's personal account adds a significant dimension to understanding the scope and seriousness of the alleged conspiracy.
As legal proceedings continue against the detained suspects, security agencies maintain heightened vigilance while pursuing the remaining individuals at large. The Nigerian military has reiterated its commitment to constitutional democracy and professional conduct, emphasizing that any attempts to undermine the nation's governance structures will be met with decisive action.
