EFCC, NFIU Uncover Money Trail in Alleged Coup Plot Against Tinubu

Security agencies have deepened investigations into the alleged coup attempt against President Bola Tinubu’s administration, with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) focusing on financial transactions suspected to be connected to the plot.

Both agencies are reportedly conducting a detailed forensic analysis of bank accounts belonging to certain military officers and civilians believed to be linked to the case. The probe involves reviewing deposits, withdrawals, and fund transfers to trace the flow of money and uncover potential sponsors and support networks behind the alleged plan.

According to security sources, the investigation has expanded to include the financial records of close business partners and associates of the suspects. Some accounts are believed to have been frozen as part of the ongoing inquiry.

The investigation gained more attention following reports of a suspicious ₦45 billion transfer from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), which authorities suspect may have been connected to those accused of funding the plot.

Earlier reports revealed that 16 Nigerian Army officers were arrested for allegedly planning to overthrow the government, an incident that came shortly after the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day celebration. However, the Defence Headquarters denied any link between the arrests and a coup attempt.

Despite this denial, security operatives raided the Abuja residence of former Bayelsa State governor, Timipre Sylva, where his brother and driver were reportedly detained while Sylva and his wife were said to be out of the country. His media aide later dismissed claims linking him to the case, describing the situation as politically motivated.

The EFCC and NFIU are said to be working closely with other intelligence agencies to track financial transactions and communications among the suspects. Findings from these investigations are expected to help determine how deeply the alleged network may have infiltrated the military structure.

The list of detained officers includes Brigadier General Musa Abubakar Sadiq, Colonel M.A. Ma’aji, Lieutenant Colonel S. Bappah, Lieutenant Colonel A.A. Hayatu, Lieutenant Colonel P. Dangnap, Lieutenant Colonel M. Almakura, Major A.J. Ibrahim, Major M.M. Jiddah, Major M.A. Usman, Major D. Yusuf, Major I. Dauda, Captain Ibrahim Bello, Captain A.A. Yusuf, Lieutenant S.S. Felix, Lieutenant Commander D.B. Abdullahi, and Squadron Leader S.B. Adamu.

Most of the officers are from the Infantry Corps, while others serve in the Signals and Ordnance units. The inclusion of personnel from different branches has raised concern about how far the network may extend within the armed forces.

Fresh intelligence indicates that Squadron Leader S.B. Adamu, who was recently posted to the National Counter Terrorism Centre under the Office of the National Security Adviser, was allegedly assigned to target the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu. Investigators are now examining how Adamu, who hails from Jigawa State, secured his posting to the centre just weeks before the alleged plot was uncovered.

While the EFCC and NFIU have not released official statements, sources confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and will continue until all financial and operational connections to the suspected coup network are fully exposed.