Veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker Stanley Amandi has been arrested in connection with an alleged coup plot aimed at overthrowing the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, authorities and media reports confirm. Amandi, a seasoned actor, director, and former chairman of the Actors Guild of Nigeria’s Enugu State chapter, was reportedly taken into custody in September 2025 alongside several military officers suspected of planning the illegal takeover. This marks the first time details of Amandi’s alleged involvement have become public. 

According to an exclusive report by PREMIUM TIMES, investigators allege that Amandi was recruited by the suspected plotters to act as a propagandist for the group, helping shape messaging that security sources say was intended to support the planned conspiracy. 

The alleged plot uncovered by Nigerian security forces involved serving military personnel accused of planning to destabilise the government and unlawfully remove the Tinubu administration from power. The arrests of officers and civilians took place after a coordinated intelligence effort by the Army, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies uncovered evidence of the scheme. According to sources familiar with the investigation, the operation began to unravel in late September 2025, when a serving officer tipped off commanders about the planned plot. 

Investigators say the conspiracy was not limited to power grabs but included plans to target top government officials, though details about specific alleged assassination plans have not been officially released by authorities. In past reporting on the broader alleged plot, publications have noted that high-ranking members of government might have been targets of violence, though these points remain unverified in official statements. 

While Amandi has a long career in Nollywood including roles in film and directorial credits but his name has now become linked to a case that goes beyond entertainment and into national security. His filmography spans roles and credits in works such as Once Upon a Dream, while earlier credits include directing projects and serving in guild leadership roles. 

Military Confirmation and Legal Actions 

The Defence Headquarters of Nigeria has publicly acknowledged that its investigation into the alleged plot has concluded and forwarded findings to appropriate authorities for further action. In an official statement, the military described the conduct under review as inconsistent with the ethics and professional standards expected of members of the Armed Forces, and said that officers implicated in the matter are expected to face military judicial panels. Civilians linked to the case, such as Amandi, are expected to be tried in civil courts. 

Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, confirmed that the probe was comprehensive and conducted according to established military procedures, covering all relevant circumstances surrounding the conduct of the personnel involved. 

News of Amandi’s arrest quickly drew reactions from both within the entertainment community and among the wider public. Some observers expressed shock that a prominent cultural figure could be named in connection with an alleged plot against democratic governance, while others cautioned that accusations remain allegations until they are tested in court. Conversations online have reflected wider concerns about political stability, the role of the military, and the boundaries between civilian life and national security issues.

The case comes amid heightened sensitivity around alleged coup plots in Nigeria, following reports last year that at least sixteen military officers were arrested and investigated for plotting to overthrow President Tinubu’s government. The Defence Headquarters has addressed those reports publicly, acknowledging that some officers appeared to have engaged in conduct aimed at destabilising the administration and pledging that those with cases to answer would be arraigned before judicial panels. 

At this stage, Stanley Amandi’s arrest and the associated allegations have not yet been tested in court. Amandi, like anyone accused, is presumed innocent until proven guilty under Nigeria’s legal system. The progression of his case through civil courts is likely to attract public interest given his profile as an actor and filmmaker, and the serious nature of the charges connected with national security.

The unfolding legal proceedings will reveal more about the specific nature of Amandi’s alleged actions and the extent of any involvement. Authorities have shown they intend to pursue both military and civilian components of the alleged plot through the appropriate judicial channels.