BREAKING: Nigerian Military Makes Fresh Arrests Over Alleged Coup Plot Against Tinubu

February 19, 2026 | Breaking News | Nigeria

Fresh developments have emerged in the ongoing investigations into an alleged coup plot against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the Nigerian military reportedly makes new arrests linked to the case.

Although investigations into the matter have been ongoing since 2025, authorities are yet to commence any formal trial, and critical details surrounding the alleged conspiracy remain undisclosed to the public.

Major Arrest Confirmed

Among those recently detained is Major H. Yusuf of the Nigerian Army, a member of the 57 Regular Course who recently completed his Senior Course at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji.

Sources indicate that Major Yusuf is being held alongside other suspects over what authorities have described as an attempt to destabilize the current administration. However, specifics of the alleged plan remain scarce.

Observers have described the situation as “opaque,” noting the limited public disclosure by military authorities.

Defence Minister: “I Was Also a Target”

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), recently revealed that he was personally marked for elimination in the alleged plot uncovered late last year.

Speaking on Sunday Politics on Channels Television, General Musa stated:

“I was also a target. I was supposed to be arrested, and if I refused, I was supposed to be shot.”

His revelation came shortly after the Armed Forces confirmed that some of the 16 officers arrested in October 2025 would face prosecution for allegedly attempting to overthrow President Tinubu’s administration.

How the Investigation Unfolded

In October 2025, the military initially announced the arrest of 16 officers, describing the matter at the time as acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations.

However, in January 2026, authorities disclosed that subsequent investigations allegedly uncovered evidence linking some of the officers to a broader plot aimed at destabilizing the government.

In a statement, the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said:

Certain suspects were involved in actions “inconsistent with the ethics, values, and professional standards required of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.”

He added that those with cases to answer would be arraigned before a military judicial panel in line with the Armed Forces Act.

Scale of Arrests

Reports indicate that as many as 35 military officers are currently detained. Those reportedly in custody include:

1 Brigadier General

2 Colonels

5 Lieutenant Colonels

8 Majors

5 Captains

1 Lieutenant

Several Air Force and Navy officers of equivalent ranks

10 Non-Commissioned Officers (including Sergeants and a Warrant Officer)

A police officer, identified as Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim from Taraba State, was also reportedly arrested in Abuja by operatives of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA).

Sources further alleged that some detainees have fallen ill while in custody, with families raising concerns about access to lawyers and relatives. These claims have not been independently verified by military authorities.

Political and Regional Implications

The alleged plot has reportedly extended beyond the military hierarchy, with claims that several top government officials were marked as potential targets.

The situation has also been linked in some quarters to the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary parade, though no official confirmation has been made.

Separately, the residence of former Bayelsa State governor Timipre Sylva was reportedly raided over alleged links to the matter. No formal charges have been publicly announced in connection with that development.

Historical Context

Nigeria experienced multiple military coups between 1966 and 1993 before returning to democratic rule in 1999. Since then, civilian governance has remained in place despite recurring security and political challenges.

The alleged coup attempt comes at a time when parts of West Africa have witnessed military takeovers and failed plots, heightening regional sensitivity to political instability.
What Happens Next?

While the military has pledged to prosecute officers found culpable, no formal trial date has been announced.

With investigations still ongoing and limited official disclosures, many questions remain unanswered.