Fatimah Otunsanya
Fresh indications have emerged that the military has arrested an additional 15 officers of various ranks in connection with an alleged coup plot against the Federal Government, bringing the number of detained officers to over 40.
Sources told the news that the new arrests followed revelations made during interrogation of the initial 16 officers taken into custody. The detained officers reportedly disclosed the expected roles the newly arrested personnel were meant to play in what investigators described as a “grand plot.”
According to the sources, security agencies are analysing communication exchanges among the suspects, raising the possibility of further arrests as the investigation deepens.
Most of the officers, sources said, belong to the Infantry Corps, Signals Corps, and Ordnance Corps.
Investigators Trace Funds to Former Governor, Minister of State.
Insiders revealed that a substantial amount of money was traced to the suspected network behind the alleged plot. Collaboration among the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and other agencies reportedly linked the funds to a former governor who also served as a minister of state.
Sources noted that the detained officers have been cooperating with investigators, providing details of their recruitment and planned roles.
Although the Defence Headquarters has not officially commented on the latest arrests, sources said the military is keeping the matter under wraps pending the conclusion of investigations.