The Department of State Services (DSS) has detained a man accused of openly calling for a military takeover of Nigeria’s democratically elected government through a post on social media.
The suspect, identified as Chukwuma, reportedly used his personal X (formerly Twitter) account to urge the Nigerian Armed Forces to “intervene” and “reset the country,” while describing the occupant of Aso Rock in derogatory terms.
The post, which went viral before being deleted, drew widespread condemnation online and immediate attention from security agencies.
“A coup in Nigeria is needed. Dispose of APC, suspend the Nigerian Government, and join the AES… The bastard in Aso Rock has basically sold this country to the West. Only the military can reset this country,” the suspect allegedly wrote in the now-deleted post.
DSS Confirms Arrest
Security sources confirmed on Tuesday night that DSS operatives tracked and arrested the suspect in connection with the inciting message.
He was taken into custody in Abuja and is said to be cooperating with investigators.
A senior DSS officer, who requested anonymity because he was not authorised to speak publicly, said the agency views the post as a direct attempt to incite military insurrection against a constitutional government.
“We have a responsibility to prevent actions or statements capable of undermining the peace and stability of the country. The suspect is currently being profiled and questioned,” the official said.
National Security Concerns
The arrest comes amid growing concerns over rising online agitation and political discontent. Nigeria’s intelligence agencies have repeatedly warned citizens against making statements that could threaten national security or encourage anti-democratic actions.
Political analysts say the DSS’s action reflects heightened sensitivity within the security establishment to any suggestion of military interference, especially given Nigeria’s long history of coups before the return to civilian rule in 1999.
Legal Implications
Under Nigerian law, advocating or supporting the overthrow of a legitimate government constitutes a treasonable felony, a crime punishable by life imprisonment.
The DSS is expected to transfer the suspect to the Ministry of Justice for further investigation and possible prosecution once preliminary interrogations are concluded.
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Human rights groups, meanwhile, are urging authorities to ensure due process is followed, even as they acknowledge the seriousness of the alleged offence.
Government’s Stance
Officials close to the Presidency have reportedly expressed full support for the DSS action, describing it as a necessary deterrent against what they call “reckless online incitement.”
Background
In recent months, Nigeria’s security agencies have intensified monitoring of online activities, citing the spread of false information and politically charged rhetoric on social media.
The latest arrest marks one of the most visible crackdowns on digital speech deemed to threaten national stability.
Next Steps
As of Wednesday morning, the DSS had not released an official statement, but sources indicated that the agency plans to brief the press once its investigation progresses. The suspect remains in custody pending formal charges.
