Those allegedly conspiring against the administration of Bola Tinubu have secured 32 vehicles, notably Volkswagen Golf and sport utility vehicles, to support their clandestine efforts, according to a report by PREMIUM TIMES.
Sources familiar with the investigation disclosed that military personnel have gathered proof of these transactions.
The vehicles were reportedly intended for disguising movements, conducting intelligence operations, and providing covert access to key areas such as airports and other strategic public facilities.
These vehicles were allegedly utilized to transport operatives discreetly, allowing them to engage in reconnaissance activities associated with the coup plans.
A source mentioned that documentation related to the vehicle purchases, including receipts and transaction records, has been retrieved during the ongoing investigations, contributing to the evidence against the individuals implicated.
This documentation allegedly outlines the financial arrangements and distribution logistics pertaining to the vehicles and other supportive resources.
The probe has also unveiled a retired major general, named Adamu, as a significant figure within the conspiracy, who has evaded capture, while three additional suspects remain at large. Intelligence findings indicate that one of these fugitives was traced to a South American country, though specific details regarding his whereabouts remain undisclosed for security precautions.
Several security agencies are collaborating to dismantle the remaining factions associated with this plot, with ongoing surveillance and intelligence sharing across borders.
In the meantime, efforts are being made to initiate prosecutions. Insiders from defense and security circles indicate that they are awaiting approval from the presidency to establish a court-martial panel tasked with trial proceedings against the implicated soldiers.
According to one source, approximately 25 military personnel are anticipated to face trial connected to this coup attempt.
Furthermore, a number of civilians are currently detained and are being investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and State Security Services (SSS) for their supposed involvement in financing and logistical support for the illicit operation.
Security officials suggest that additional arrests may occur as the investigation continues, with the likelihood of further insights into the organizational structure, funding mechanisms, and operational strategy behind the thwarted coup.
Background: In October of last year, PREMIUM TIMES revealed that 16 military personnel were detained in connection with a coup attempt aimed at overthrowing the elected government.
The conspirators, led by Colonel Muhammed Ma’aji, allegedly sought to assassinate President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, among other high-ranking officials.
They also intended to apprehend top military leaders, including Christopher Musa, who was then the Chief of Defence Staff and now serves as the Minister of Defence.
The conspiracy was uncovered in late September 2025, leading to the cancellation of the Independence Day parade.
Initially, military authorities were reluctant to acknowledge the coup attempt, asserting that the detained officers faced accusations of "indiscipline and breach of service regulations".
In a subsequent statement released on October 4, the Defence Headquarters indicated that preliminary investigations revealed that the officers’ grievances stemmed from “career stagnation and failures in promotion examinations.”
After the foiled coup attempt, President Tinubu terminated the appointments of the service chiefs, retaining only Olufemi Oluyede and Emmanuel Undiandeye.
Later amidst rising tensions coinciding with U.S. President Donald Trump’s allegations of a “Christian genocide,” Musa was recalled and appointed Minister of Defence, replacing Muhammed Badaru, who had resigned citing health concerns.
On January 26, the military officially acknowledged the existence of the coup plot, stating that relevant officers would face judicial proceedings.
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