Veteran Nollywood actor Stanley Amandi has been arrested in connection with an alleged coup plot targeting the government of President Bola Tinubu, authorities confirmed.
Mr. Amandi was reportedly taken into custody in September 2025 along with several serving Nigerian military officers accused of planning to violently overthrow the Tinubu administration. Though his arrest took place months ago, details of his alleged role only recently emerged in public reports.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the actor was allegedly “hired to play the role of a propagandist” by the suspected coup plotters. Officials say the group had discussed plans to assassinate top government officials, including: President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas.
The exact nature of Amandi’s involvement in the alleged plot has not been made public, and no official comment has come from the actor or his representatives.
The Defence Headquarters confirmed its investigation into the matter has concluded and that the case has been forwarded to the appropriate authorities in accordance with existing regulations.
In a statement, defence officials said the probe was carried out according to “established military procedures” and identified several officers who allegedly planned to overthrow the government, actions the military described as fundamentally at odds with its ethics and professional standards.
Sources revealed that suspects will face different legal processes based on their status: Serving military officers will be tried by military tribunals and civilians, including Stanley Amandi, will be prosecuted in civil courts
As of this report, the exact charges against Mr. Amandi have not been publicly filed, and it is unclear when his case will next appear in court.
Stanley Amandi is known in Nollywood as an actor, director, and production manager. His film credits include The Album, Tiger King, Cornerstone, and the 2024 feature Once Upon a Dream, in which he appeared on screen.
The development has shocked many in the entertainment community, where colleagues and fans are closely watching as details continue to unfold.