Veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker Stanley Amandi has been arrested in connection with an alleged coup plot targeting the administration of President Bola Tinubu. According to military and investigative sources, Amandi was taken into custody in September 2025, but his involvement has only now been publicly confirmed by authorities.
Amandi, known for his work both in front of and behind the camera, including as director and former chairperson of the Enugu State chapter of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, is accused of being recruited by suspected plotters to serve as a propagandist for the conspiracy. Investigators allege his role was to help shape and spread messaging to support the planned overthrow of the federal government.
The alleged plot, which was reportedly foiled in late September 2025, involved a group of serving military officers and a number of civilians. According to security sources, the conspirators planned a violent takeover of government and even targeted the assassination of top political figures. Among those said to have been marked for elimination were President Tinubu himself, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas.
The Defence Headquarters has now officially acknowledged the investigation’s findings and confirmed that the plot to unlawfully remove the Tinubu administration was uncovered after months of discreet intelligence work. A statement from military authorities said the probe was “comprehensive” and adhered to established procedures, ultimately identifying several officers with alleged involvement in planning to overthrow the government.
Military personnel implicated in the matter are expected to be tried before military judicial panels, while civilians like Amandi will face prosecution in civil courts, according to sources familiar with the proceedings.
Amandi’s filmography spans decades, with credits as a director, producer, and actor. Notable works include The Album, Tiger King, Cornerstone, and most recently, Once Upon a Dream. His last activity on social media was documented just days before his arrest in September last year.
The public disclosure of Amandi’s involvement has sent shockwaves through both the entertainment world and political circles, reigniting debate over the depth and breadth of the alleged conspiracy.
