Nigeria’s seat of power was allegedly subjected to covert surveillance as investigators uncovered how suspected coup plotters penetrated security layers around the Presidential Villa, raising fresh concerns over internal vulnerabilities at the nation’s most protected facility.
According to multiple security sources familiar with ongoing military investigations, the suspects were said to have gained access to restricted areas within the Villa, where they discreetly studied movements, security installations, and operational routines.
The surveillance was reportedly carried out over a period of time, allowing the plotters to assess weaknesses without immediately triggering suspicion.
Furthermore, findings from the probe indicate that the breach may have been aided by compromised staff linked to a major construction and maintenance company operating within the Villa complex.
Investigators believe some workers exploited their routine access to sensitive zones, thereby enabling the alleged plotters to move around areas ordinarily off-limits to unauthorised persons.
A senior security source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the development pointed to “a troubling mix of insider access and procedural lapses,” adding that the situation underscored the risks posed when background checks and access controls are not rigorously enforced.
However, security officials insist the alleged plot was uncovered before any harm could be done, stressing that measures have since been tightened to prevent a recurrence.
“The focus now is on sealing loopholes and ensuring accountability at every level,” one source said.
Meanwhile, the revelations have intensified conversations around contractor oversight and internal security protocols at critical national assets, with analysts warning that insider compromise remains one of the most difficult threats to detect and neutralise.