Inter-Agency Probe Details Massive Arms Recovery in Failed Coup Attempt
Security agencies in Nigeria have successfully dismantled a sophisticated network of military officers and civilians who allegedly conspired to overthrow the government of President Bola Tinubu through a coordinated wave of assassinations and strategic takeovers. An inter-agency investigation led by the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiandeye, has concluded its probe, revealing an extensive arsenal of weapons and a fleet of vehicles intended for use in the foiled insurrection.
The investigation findings, which have been formally transmitted to the presidency, indicate that the plotters intended to strike at the heart of the Nigerian state by simultaneously assassinating the President, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House Tajudeen Abbas. The plot also extended to the elimination of the nation’s service chiefs and the Commander of the Guards Brigade to ensure a total collapse of the existing command structure.
According to exclusive intelligence details obtained by Premium Times, the recovery of hardware underscores the gravity of the threat. Investigators seized two gun trucks equipped with anti-aircraft guns, PKT machine guns, and rocket-propelled grenade bombs. A cache of AK-47 rifles, tactical gear, and significant quantities of ammunition was also recovered from a lieutenant colonel formerly attached to the 130 Battalion.
Beyond heavy weaponry, the conspirators reportedly invested heavily in logistics to facilitate covert movement within the capital. Security forces seized 39 vehicles, including 32 Volkswagen Golf cars, four Toyota Hilux trucks, and a Toyota Prado SUV. Intelligence sources revealed that these vehicles were purchased specifically to conduct reconnaissance and move operatives to sensitive locations, such as the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and the Presidential Villa, without attracting the attention of loyalist security units.
The financial trail of the conspiracy has led investigators to high-profile figures. Former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, has been accused of bankrolling the operation. The probe alleges that Mr Sylva funnelled nearly ₦1 billion through multiple tranches to bank accounts operated by a Bureau De Change operator. Mr Sylva is currently at large, and authorities have intensified efforts to locate him alongside other key figures, including retired Major General Adamu.
The timeline of the plot suggests that the conspirators originally aimed to strike during the presidential inauguration on May 29, 2023. However, the plan was reportedly deferred due to a lack of immediate funding and logistical gaps. The group allegedly reactivated the plan in 2024 after securing the necessary resources, relying on a network of informants within the Presidential Villa to monitor the movements of the political leadership.
Sources familiar with the investigation have confirmed that at least 25 military personnel are expected to face a court-martial once presidential approval is granted. These officers are accused of conduct inconsistent with the ethics and professional standards of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. Simultaneously, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the State Security Service are holding an undisclosed number of civilians for their roles in the financing and coordination of the failed coup.
While the investigation has identified the core participants, some key suspects remain outside the reach of Nigerian authorities. One individual has been tracked to a South American nation, prompting ongoing cross-border intelligence coordination to secure his arrest. The Defence Headquarters maintained that the swift inter-agency response prevented a catastrophic breach of national security and ensured the continued stability of the democratic administration.
