For months, rumors and secrecy have surrounded last year's alleged Independence Day coup plot in Nigeria. With the recent indictment of six civilians accused of involvement, the first details of what is said to have been an elaborate plan to oust President Bola Tinubu have emerged. The coup was reportedly scheduled for 1 October 2025, coinciding with Nigeria's independence anniversary.
However, the government abruptly cancelled the celebratory parade, raising questions about the reason behind the sudden decision. In January, the Nigerian military confirmed that 16 unnamed senior military officers would face a court-martial over the thwarted coup, effectively acknowledging the attempt.
A court document has unveiled Colonel Mohammed Ma'aji as the alleged mastermind behind the operation, with aims to destabilize the state prior to the takeover. Six civilians, including a police inspector and retired military personnel, are now on trial. They face 13 charges including treason and terrorism, denying any wrongdoing.
Colonel Ma'aji's history shows a rise through the ranks during a time of significant oil militancy in Nigeria, building ties with oil businessman Timipre Sylva, who is believed to have financed the coup plot. Sylva's involvement introduces an explosive political dimension to the case, as accusations point to his historical links and opposition to President Tinubu during the latter's 2023 campaign.
Furthermore, the alleged coup plan is said to have included detailed intelligence gathering and insider information, suggesting significant pre-planning and coordination among multiple stakeholders. Allegations even extend to Nollywood, with filmmaker Stanley Amandi reportedly being hired as a propaganda tool for the military takeover.
The trial has raised alarms about Nigeria's political stability, mirroring broader trends of military coups across West Africa, and many are keenly awaiting further developments in what appears to be one of the most serious threats to Nigeria's democracy since 1999.
