Military intelligence has uncovered N11bn in the bank accounts of a detained Nigerian Army colonel linked to an alleged coup plot, sparking wider investigations and leadership changes within the armed forces.
Military intelligence has traced about N11bn to the bank accounts of a colonel detained over the alleged coup plot involving several senior Nigerian military officers, Sunday PUNCH has learnt.
Security sources confirmed that the discovery connected the officer to the plot. “When interrogated, the colonel claimed that the funds belonged to a former governor, whom he described as his business partner,” a source said, adding that the officer insisted the money was for a legitimate transaction.
Investigations, which began in August 2024, reportedly uncovered communications, financial movements, and foreign links among suspects who allegedly planned to strike on June 12 and October 1, 2025. “They met in the UK and Turkey this year,” another source revealed.
Intelligence findings led to adjustments in President Bola Tinubu’s movements, including the cancellation of Independence Day celebrations amid security concerns.
Last Friday, Tinubu dismissed all service chiefs, a move linked to a “management error” after the Defence Headquarters publicly confirmed the arrest of 16 officers.
Although the military has denied any coup attempt, ongoing Defence Intelligence Agency operations and recent raids, including one at the Abuja home of former minister Timipre Sylva, suggest the probe is widening.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Air Force and Army have redeployed senior officers to strengthen command and operational efficiency.