The Nigerian military has arrested 16 officers, including some senior ones, over claims of planning a coup to remove President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from power. These arrests happened after reports surfaced in late September that some military personnel were holding secret meetings and showing dissatisfaction with the current government.
While the Defence Headquarters confirmed the arrests, they denied any connection to a coup attempt, stating the detentions were due to breaches of discipline and military regulations. Investigations showed the officers were unhappy about career setbacks and repeated failures in promotion exams. Some of them were already facing disciplinary action for other issues.
However, sources from the Defence Intelligence Agency said the officers were indeed plotting to take over the government but were stopped thanks to intelligence work.
This situation has led to heightened security concerns and the cancellation of Nigeria’s Independence Day parade on October 1. Officials said the cancellation was to allow President Tinubu to attend an important meeting abroad, not directly because of the arrests.
An investigative panel made up of representatives from the army, navy, air force, police, and security services has been set up to look into the matter. The Defence Headquarters has reassured Nigerians of the military’s loyalty to the democratic government and urged people not to believe false reports.
It’s worth noting that Nigeria has experienced five military coups since gaining independence in 1960. Some Nigerians have called for military intervention, due to economic difficulties in the country. Authorities assure the public that they will handle the investigation with transparency.
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