Nollywood actor allegedly tapped for coup propaganda role

A prominent Nollywood actor, Stanley Amandi, is reportedly at the center of a national security investigation for allegedly agreeing to coordinate propaganda efforts for a planned coup against President Bola Tinubu's government. Amandi, a respected actor, filmmaker, and former chairman of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) in Enugu State, allegedly accepted an assignment to rally support across the South-east for a potential military takeover.

Investigation records obtained by PREMIUM TIMES indicate that Amandi's statement to investigators details how an initial friendship with a soldier evolved into meetings discussing unconstitutional means to change Nigeria's government. These discussions allegedly included assigning civilian roles to legitimize a new regime after a successful seizure of power. This account is part of the evidence presented by the prosecution in ongoing coup trials at the Federal High Court and the General Court Martial in Abuja.

The investigation stems from intelligence reports received in September 2025 concerning an alleged conspiracy involving serving and retired military officers, as well as civilians recruited to support the operation. This led to the arraignment of six defendants before the Federal High Court on charges including treason, terrorism, and money laundering. Serving military officers face charges at the General Court Martial. Investigators believe the alleged conspirators aimed to overthrow President Tinubu's administration and target high-ranking officials, including the Vice President, Senate President, Speaker of the House, service chiefs, and commanders of the Guards Brigade.

Investigators suggest that while some members focused on military planning, logistics, and financing, others, like Mr. Amandi, were assigned roles in influencing public opinion and projecting legitimacy for a new government. His alleged role became significant within this broader plan, reportedly stemming from a chance encounter that shifted his involvement from casual acquaintance to discussions of national upheaval.