Nigeria’s Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) has arrested the managing director of a federal agency in the South-South region over an alleged cash transfer to former Bayelsa State Governor Timipre Sylva, suspected to be linked to a coup plot against President Bola Tinubu.

The arrest, which took place on Tuesday in Abuja, follows an ongoing investigation triggered by the October 4 detention of 16 military officers ranging from captains to brigadier generals. The officers were initially held over disciplinary issues, including failed promotion exams and alleged indiscipline, according to Defence Headquarters spokesperson Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye. However, multiple reports suggest the detentions may be tied to a broader conspiracy to destabilize the government.

Two intelligence sources, speaking anonymously to The PUNCH, confirmed that the unnamed executive—affiliated with a Niger Delta government agency—is currently being interrogated over the intent behind the substantial cash transfer to Sylva. The former petroleum minister and prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) figure was reportedly overseas at the time and canceled a scheduled return flight following news of the officer arrests.

On Saturday, military operatives raided Sylva’s residence in Abuja, detaining his brother, Paga Sylva, who serves as special assistant on domestic affairs, along with the family’s driver. Sylva himself was not found at the property.

The investigation has drawn attention to reports by SaharaReporters, which allege that the October 1 Independence Day parade was a potential flashpoint for the coup attempt. The outlet cited unnamed officials who described coordinated home arrests and clandestine meetings aimed at undermining the presidency. “The statement’s just diplomatic,” one source said, referring to the official explanation from Defence Headquarters.

Despite mounting speculation, no formal charges have been filed against Sylva or the detained agency head. Defence officials, including Maj.-Gen. Kangye and Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, have declined to comment further, and Defence Headquarters has yet to address the treason allegations publicly.

Families of the detained officers have expressed concern over the lack of communication, stating they have received no updates weeks after the arrests.

The case has stirred historical echoes of Nigeria’s 1993 coup tensions, raising questions about military cohesion and political stability in the current administration. Sylva’s longstanding ties to Bayelsa’s oil sector and his influence within the ruling party have added weight to the investigation’s implications.

The probe remains active, with further developments expected as authorities continue to examine financial records and intelligence leads.