Two soldiers have reportedly fled the country after being linked to an alleged coup plot aimed at toppling the country’s democratic government.
Military authorities have intensified their crackdown, following the arrest and interrogation of 16 officers earlier in October.
TheCable reports that 18 personnel were initially marked for arrest, but two; Major JM Ganaks and Captain G. Binuga, escaped before they could be apprehended.
Ganaks, identified by service number N/14363, hails from the Federal Capital Territory and belongs to Regular Course 58 of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA). His last known posting was at Jaji, Kaduna State.
Binuga, on the other hand, is a captain with service number N/167722 from Taraba State. He was reportedly attached to the Defence Headquarters Special Operations Forces (DHQ SOF) in Bida, Niger State, and is a member of Regular Course 64.
Sources say the two fugitives are believed to have fled Nigeria to avoid arrest.
Meanwhile, military investigators have reportedly extracted “useful statements” from some of those already in custody, leading to more arrests. Over 30 officers are now believed to be detained as the probe deepens.
While some of the suspects have remained tight-lipped, others are said to be “very cooperative,” providing key information to authorities.
Contrary to speculation, the coup attempt was not scheduled for October 1. Arrests began during the first week of the month after intelligence reports allegedly exposed the conspiracy.
Although the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has yet to officially confirm the coup allegations, it has described the ongoing investigation of 16 officers as a “routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism is maintained within the ranks.”
The incident has heightened tension within military circles as the nation watches closely for official confirmation and possible charges against those implicated.
