SECURITY operatives have arrested Nollywood filmmaker and actor, Stanley Amandi, over his alleged involvement in a plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration, deepening revelations surrounding a foiled coup allegedly involving both military officers and civilians.
News Point Nigeria gathered that Amandi, a former Chairman of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Enugu State chapter, was taken into custody in September 2025, although the arrest only became public months later as authorities expanded their probe into the alleged conspiracy.
According to sources familiar with the investigation, the actor was allegedly engaged as a propagandist by elements behind the plot, with investigators tracing communication links and activities believed to be aimed at destabilising the government.
Security sources said the alleged plan involved violent actions targeting top figures of the current administration. Those reportedly listed as possible targets included President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas.
While official details surrounding Amandi’s specific role remain closely guarded, investigators are said to be examining his communications, financial records, and alleged coordination with individuals already under military investigation.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has since confirmed the existence of the coup plot. In a statement, the military said findings from its investigations had been submitted to the “appropriate superior authority in line with extant regulations.”
“The comprehensive investigation, conducted in accordance with established military procedures, examined all circumstances surrounding the conduct of the affected personnel,” the statement read, adding that it uncovered “a number of officers with allegations of plotting to overthrow the government.”
Earlier reports in October 2025 suggesting that 16 military officers were being investigated over a coup plot were initially denied by the Nigerian Army, which described the matter at the time as one of “indiscipline and breach of service regulations.”
However, subsequent investigations reportedly uncovered wider links, leading to additional arrests.
Security officials confirmed that serving military officers implicated in the plot would face court-martial, while civilians, including Amandi, would be tried in civil courts in accordance with Nigerian law.
Amandi is a familiar face in Nollywood, known for his roles in films such as The Album, Tiger King, and Cornerstone. Observers noted that his social media activity abruptly ceased days before his reported arrest, a development that has since fueled speculation following the public disclosure of his detention.
