Nollywood has been thrust into a major political controversy after veteran actor and filmmaker Stanley “Stan K. Amandi” Amandi was arrested in connection with an alleged failed coup plot aimed at overthrowing the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Authorities say Amandi, who previously served as chairman of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) in Enugu State, was detained by the Nigerian military in September 2025 alongside several serving military officers accused of planning to remove the Tinubu administration by force. While his arrest was not widely publicised at the time, details about his alleged role only surfaced publicly in late January 2026.
Security sources allege that Amandi was recruited by the suspected coup plotters to act as a propagandist, responsible for shaping narratives and influencing public perception in support of the planned takeover. Prosecutors claim the conspiracy included plans to violently assassinate top government officials, including President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, among others.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) confirmed that a comprehensive investigation has concluded and the findings have been forwarded to “appropriate superior authority in line with extant regulations.” Military personnel implicated are expected to be arraigned before military judicial panels, while civilians like Amandi will face prosecution in civil courts as the case progresses.
Amandi is a recognised figure in Nigeria’s film industry with a career spanning acting, directing, and production. His credits include The Album (director), Tiger King (director and producer), Cornerstone (producer), and Once Upon a Dream (actor). His last public social media activity was in September 2025, shortly before his detention.
The news has triggered intense debate online and within entertainment circles, with calls for due process and clarification of the allegations against Amandi as investigations and legal proceedings continue.
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