Military uncovers N45bn NDDC trail in alleged coup probe

Military investigation into the alleged coup attempt against President Bola Tinubu has uncovered a trail of N45 billion disbursed from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) accounts to politically exposed persons and detained soldiers suspected to be linked to the conspiracy. The Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), working alongside other security agencies, has been interrogating top NDDC officials over high-value transactions tied to this fund, including a ₦45 billion shoreline protection contract awarded to a former South-South governor.

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The military earlier denied reports linking the detention of 16 army officers to a coup attempt, describing the arrests as investigations into professional misconduct. Meanwhile, operatives raided the Abuja residence of former Bayelsa Governor and ex-Minister of State for Petroleum, Timipre Sylva, arresting his younger brother and driver, though Sylva himself denies any involvement, calling the allegations politically motivated. The raid and probe into the NDDC finances have caused significant anxiety among commission officials, with fears that the investigation could widen.