A former southern governor is being investigated for alleged links to detained army officers accused of plotting a coup.
Security sources say the ex-governor may have funded the plan to overthrow President Tinubu.
A former governor from one of Nigeria’s southern states is reportedly under investigation for alleged ties to army officers detained over an alleged coup plot scheduled for October 25.
According to multiple security sources, investigators suspect the former governor may have financially supported the plot. Sixteen military officers are currently in custody following their arrest for what the Defence Headquarters earlier described as “unprofessional conduct.” Reports from Sahara Reporters and Premium Times indicated the officers were being questioned for their alleged plan to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Those detained include a Brigadier General, a Colonel, and several junior officers said to be attached to the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). One source confirmed that “civilian accomplices, including a former governor, are being investigated, but the depth of their involvement is yet to be established.”
The former governor under probe is also said to have previously worked in the oil and gas industry. Security operatives are reportedly examining his recent interactions with the detained officers, and he may be invited for questioning if investigators find credible evidence linking him to the alleged plot.
The investigation is being coordinated by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), with senior officers representing the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The probe panel, led by a Major General, has kept the list of suspects classified.
Sources further disclosed that the detained Brigadier General hails from Niger State, while the Colonel under investigation is from Nasarawa State and related to a former governor, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura.
A family member of the Nasarawa officer confirmed the development, expressing concern over the situation. “We are distressed. His wife and the family are very worried. Our prayer is that he will be cleared of these allegations,” the relative said.
Findings suggest that more officers have been invited for questioning, and security agencies are closely monitoring several influential politicians from both northern and southern regions who may have connections to the alleged coup plot.
