Botched Coup: Military Arrests FG Agency Boss Over Alleged Coup Fund Linked to Tinubu's Minister

According to report by _Punch_ newspaper on Wednesday October 29, 2025, Military investigators are reportedly interrogating a Managing Director of a Federal Government agency in the South-South region over alleged links to a plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu. 

According to intelligence sources, the MD was arrested for allegedly transferring a large sum of money to former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, who is being suspected of financing the alleged coup.

Investigators believe the funds were intended to support the planned takeover of government. “The MD sent a huge sum to Sylva, and we’re investigating whether that money was connected to the coup,” an intelligence officer disclosed.

It was gathered that Sylva’s Abuja home was raided by military operatives on Saturday. His younger brother, Paga, who serves as his Special Assistant on Domestic Affairs, and his driver were arrested during the operation. Sylva, who was reportedly abroad, decided to delay his return after learning about the arrest of the alleged coup leaders.

Meanwhile, military spokespersons, Maj Gen Markus Kangye and Brig Gen Tukur Gusau, could not be reached for comments. Earlier, the Defence Headquarters confirmed the detention of 16 officers for breaches of discipline, though reports claim the arrests were linked to an alleged coup plot.

Source: PUNCH