Prosper Okoye
Nollywood actor and filmmaker Stanley “Stan K.” Amandi has been reported to be in military custody over an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s government.
While his arrest took place in September 2025, details of his involvement only became public on 30 January 2026, prompting widespread discussion on social media.
Amandi, a veteran of the Nigerian film industry, is known for his roles in films such as Lionheart and previously served as chairman of the Enugu State chapter of the Actors Guild of Nigeria.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelReports describe him as an Igbo man from Enugu and suggest he is the only civilian of Igbo descent linked to the case so far, although he is not considered a central conspirator in the alleged plot.
His last public social media activity was on 19 September 2025, shortly before his arrest, and he has not made any statements regarding the allegations.
Authorities say the foiled scheme involved several serving military officers and civilians accused of planning a violent seizure of power. Alleged targets included President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House Tajudeen Abbas.
Amandi is reported to have acted as a “propagandist,” handling messaging and shaping public narratives in support of the takeover, while the primary conspirators were serving military personnel, many from northern Nigeria.
The news of Amandi’s arrest quickly drew attention online, with reactions on X ranging from shock to scepticism and ethnic commentary. Some users questioned the involvement of a civilian in a military-led scheme, while others highlighted his Igbo heritage, noting that the alleged plotters were predominantly from northern Nigeria.
Social media exchanges reflected disbelief over why a well-known actor would be publicly associated with the case when the majority of those implicated are serving officers.
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Amandi remains in military custody as investigations continue, and officials have not released further details. Analysts and observers continue to monitor the situation closely, noting the unusual involvement of a civilian in a high-profile alleged coup and the potential implications for public perception and trust in the armed forces.
Prosper Okoye is a Correspondent and Research Writer at Prime Business Africa, a Nigerian journalist with experience in development reporting, public affairs, and policy-focused storytelling across Africa
