What we know about Nollywood actor arrested‘over role in plot to overthrow’ Tinubu

A Nollywood actor, Stanley Amandi has reportedly been in custody of the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) since September 2025 over his alleged role in the plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s government.

Amandi, the former chairperson of the Enugu state chapter of the guild, is among civilians reportedly arrested in connection with the alleged coup plot.

Recall that reports of a possible coup attempt first surfaced in October 2025, following the federal government’s cancellation of the parade for the country’s 65th independence anniversary.

The DHQ at the time dismissed any link between the parade cancellation and a coup plot, also stating that the arrests of some officers were unrelated.

However, on October 31, fresh reports surfaced that 16 military officers were arrested over the alleged coup attempt, while two other officers were on the run.

Amandi was among civilians reportedly arrested last September, according to a Friday report by Premium Times.

This preceded the official confirmation from the defence headquarters that a coup plot had been uncovered.

“The actor was hired to play the role of a propagandist by the alleged coupists who planned to assassinate top government officials last year,” the newspaper reported.

“The officers allegedly planned a violent takeover in which the top government officials were marked for elimination.”

According to the report, the indicted officers will be court-martialed, while the civilians involved will be tried in civil courts.

However, the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has reacted to the development involving its member.

The AGN national president, Emeka Rollas confirmed the Guild is aware of the situation regarding Amandi and stated that an official statement would be issued soon.