The number of Nigerian military officers detained over an alleged coup attempt against President Bola Tinubu has risen sharply from 16 to 42, security sources revealed, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing investigation.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) had initially announced the arrest of 16 officers, framing the action as routine disciplinary measures without mentioning any coup linkage.
But insiders told Daily Trust that the detentions stem from a suspected plot to undermine Nigeria’s 26-year unbroken democratic governance.
The officers are now under interrogation to determine their exact involvement and whether the alleged scheme extended beyond preliminary talks.
“So far, 42 officers have been picked up. They are being interrogated to establish the depth of involvement and whether there was any concrete plan beyond mere discussions,” one source said.Another source warned that the tally may climb higher.
“The number could increase as the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) and the Military Police continue tracing communication links and possible funding channels,” the source added.