N45bn NDDC payment uncovered in probe of alleged coup plot

N45bn NDDC payment uncovered in probe of alleged coup plot

Fresh revelations from the ongoing military investigation into an alleged coup plot have uncovered a financial trail of about ₦45 billion reportedly linked to accounts associated with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

The funds, according to sources familiar with the probe, were allegedly disbursed to politically exposed persons and some of the detained military officers, raising concerns over the possible diversion of public resources for subversive activities.

Daily Trust gathered that the investigation, which initially focused on alleged plans to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has now taken a financial turn, with investigators scrutinising the source and purpose of the disbursements.

Earlier reports by Sahara Reporters claimed that 16 Nigerian Army officers were in custody over an alleged plot to disrupt the constitutional order, a development said to be linked to the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day celebrations.

However, the Defence Headquarters, through its Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, dismissed the coup claims, stating that the officers were being investigated for professional misconduct and not treason.

As part of the ongoing probe, operatives of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) reportedly raided the Abuja residence of former Bayelsa State Governor and ex-Minister of State for Petroleum, Chief Timipre Sylva. During the operation, Sylva’s younger brother, Paga—who serves as his Special Assistant on Domestic Affairs—and his driver were taken into custody. Sylva and his wife, Alanyingi, were said to be out of the country at the time.

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Sources said the investigation has led to the interrogation of senior NDDC officials over the disbursement and utilisation of the ₦45 billion, some of which allegedly found its way into accounts linked to the detained soldiers. Among the projects under scrutiny is a shoreline contract in the South-South region, reportedly awarded to a former governor.

Within the NDDC, the development has triggered anxiety among top executives, with insiders revealing that many directors are now treading cautiously amid fears of a broader probe into the commission’s financial dealings.

Reacting to the development, Sylva, through his Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs, Chief Julius Bokoru, denied any involvement in the alleged plot. He described the allegations as the handiwork of “desperate and self-seeking politicians” eyeing the 2027 governorship race in Bayelsa.

Bokoru confirmed the raid on Sylva’s residence, noting that while property was damaged, no incriminating evidence was found. He added that Sylva and his wife were abroad for medical and professional engagements.

He also dismissed attempts to link the NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku—who once served as Sylva’s Chief of Staff—to the alleged plot. Ogbuku, when contacted, denied being arrested or involved in any wrongdoing.

In a statement titled “Setting the Record Straight on Recent False Reports About Sylva,” Bokoru reaffirmed the former governor’s commitment to democratic ideals and support for President Tinubu, describing the allegations as “desperate and self-serving.”

Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters has reiterated that reports of a coup attempt are “false, misleading, and malicious,” maintaining that the detained officers are only being investigated for professional misconduct.

N45bn NDDC payment uncovered in probe of alleged coup plot