Intelligence Operation Foils Alleged Coup Plot Against President Tinubu
In a significant security development, a covert intelligence operation coordinated by the Nigerian Army Headquarters and the Department of State Services (DSS) successfully thwarted a dangerous plot aimed at overthrowing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration and assassinating key political figures. This operation, which unfolded in late 2025, represents a critical moment in Nigeria's ongoing efforts to maintain democratic stability and national security.
How the Plot Was Uncovered
According to multiple senior administration insiders, the plot began to unravel in late September 2025 when an unnamed military officer with direct knowledge of the conspiracy contacted the then Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede. The officer reportedly disclosed the scheme, expressing fear of being implicated as an accessory to treason if he failed to alert authorities. This crucial tip-off provided the initial breakthrough in what would become a comprehensive security investigation.
Simultaneously, the DSS independently gathered intelligence indicating that some serving army officers were actively plotting to destabilise the government and undermine Nigeria's democracy. The convergence of intelligence from these multiple sources created a compelling picture of an imminent threat to national security.
Coordinated Security Response
Faced with this alarming intelligence, the Director-General of the DSS, Adeola Ajayi, personally briefed Chief of Army Staff Oluyede on the findings. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the two security chiefs agreed to act swiftly and decisively. They launched a wide-ranging but discreet joint operation between the army and the DSS, with coordinated arrests planned across different parts of the country to neutralize the coup's masterminds and other collaborators.
The operation went into effect on September 30, 2025, while President Tinubu was traveling to Imo State for an official visit, completely unaware of the plot to depose and possibly assassinate him. The security sweep led to the arrest of the alleged principal architects of the coup, alongside other military and civilian suspects who were implicated in the conspiracy.
Aftermath and Presidential Response
Following the initial arrests, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major General Emmanuel Undiandeye, and the then Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, were formally briefed on the operation. Undiandeye was subsequently requested to detain the suspects in the underground holding facility of the Defence Intelligence Agency, ensuring their secure custody while investigations continued.
President Tinubu was formally informed of the foiled plot shortly after the operation. A visibly shaken president immediately ordered the cancellation of the October 1, 2025, National Independence Day parade as a precautionary measure. He also approved the constitution of a special investigative panel, which later led to additional arrests. This investigative panel was led by General Undiandeye, who coordinated the comprehensive examination of the conspiracy.
Ongoing Developments and Fugitive Status
In a subsequent development, one of the detained soldiers managed to escape custody but was rearrested by DSS operatives in Bauchi State, according to military insiders. This incident highlighted the ongoing challenges in maintaining secure detention of high-profile security threats.
Meanwhile, a retired officer identified as General Adamu, who was accused of bankrolling the coup plotters, remained at large as of the latest reports. Security agencies continue their efforts to locate and apprehend this key figure in the alleged conspiracy.
This foiled plot represents one of the most significant security challenges faced by the Tinubu administration and underscores the continued importance of robust intelligence cooperation between Nigeria's various security agencies. The successful operation demonstrates how coordinated efforts between the military and civilian intelligence services can effectively protect democratic institutions from internal threats.
