Defence Intelligence Chief To Brief Service Chiefs, President On Alleged Coup Plot

The Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI) and Chairman of the Special Investigative Panel, Major General Emmanuel Undiendeye, is expected to meet with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and other service chiefs in the coming days to determine the next steps in the ongoing investigation into the alleged coup plot involving some military officers.

According to security sources cited by Premium Times, the high-level meeting will review the panel’s preliminary findings and establish the framework for possible trials and disciplinary actions.

“The President will also be briefed,” one source confirmed, noting that President Bola Tinubu is closely following developments and has requested detailed updates on the investigation.

Sources revealed that military officers implicated in the alleged plot would first face court-martial proceedings before any potential civil prosecution, while civilian collaborators would be tried in regular courts.

“Military officers among the suspects will first face court-martials before possible civil proceedings, while civilians implicated in the alleged plot will be tried in civil courts,” a senior official disclosed.

Earlier reports by Premium Times indicated that 16 senior military officers were arrested in connection with the alleged coup attempt after intelligence suggested they held secret meetings aimed at overthrowing the government.

Among those detained are 14 officers from the Nigerian Army, one from the Navy, and one from the Air Force. The identities of recently arrested suspects have not yet been made public.

The arrests reportedly took place in late September, with investigations now expanding to include both serving and retired military personnel believed to have links to the plot.

Defence Headquarters to Address the Nation

While the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) initially issued a brief statement downplaying the incident, sources say military authorities are preparing a more detailed update for the public.

“In the coming days, the Defence Headquarters is expected to issue a statement informing Nigerians of the findings from the investigation so far,” an insider revealed.