The Nigerian film industry was thrown into controversy after news emerged that actor, filmmaker, and former chairperson of the Enugu State chapter of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Stanley Amandi, had been arrested for his alleged involvement in a failed coup plot against President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Amandi was reportedly arrested in Enugu, and while his family initially believed the detention was by the Department of State Services (DSS), they were later informed that he was in the custody of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA). His family has since requested access for his wife, legal counsel, and a medical doctor due to his hypertensive condition.
Investigations indicate that Amandi was allegedly involved in the media and messaging aspects of the coup, acting as a civilian collaborator tasked with shaping public narratives to justify the unconstitutional plan. Authorities say the plot, uncovered months ago, also involved serving military officers and included discussions of destabilizing the democratic order, with potential threats to top government officials, including the President, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
Security agencies conducted coordinated arrests across multiple locations to prevent the plan from advancing, turning what was initially seen as routine disciplinary issues into a major national security investigation. The case has drawn significant public attention, particularly due to the rare involvement of a high-profile entertainment figure in an alleged plot of this magnitude.
Amandi’s legal process is ongoing, and the Actors Guild of Nigeria has acknowledged the situation, promising to issue an official statement in due course.
