In a statement on Monday, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC’s
national publicity secretary, said while the party condemns any attempt to
undermine Nigeria’s democratic order, the government must not exploit the
situation to instil fear or pursue political advantage under the guise of
national security.

“The ADC has been following reports of an alleged coup plot
involving some arrested military officers and claims that a former southern
governor is under investigation for allegedly funding them,” the statement
reads.

“While we strongly oppose any action that threatens
Nigeria’s constitutional order, we are equally worried about the possibility of
using such allegations to justify political witch-hunts, suppress dissent, or
manipulate public opinion.”

Abdullahi said the conflicting statements from government
sources—especially after the defence headquarters denied knowledge of any coup
plot—raised serious concerns about the credibility of the reports.

He noted that the federal government’s “silence” on the
matter had allowed the rumour to spread unchecked, fuelling suspicion that it
may be politically motivated.

“What appears clear is that the government is using the coup
narrative to divert attention from widespread misgovernance and to curry public
sympathy,” he said.

“Even more troubling are media reports suggesting unnamed
politicians are linked to the alleged plot — a development that could be used
to justify clampdowns or surveillance on opposition figures.”

Abdullahi said the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)
must not allow its “desperation” to remain in power to endanger democracy or
citizens’ rights.

“The government has a duty to clarify the true nature of the
alleged coup and address the nation transparently if any threat truly exists,”
he said.

“It must desist from weaponising national security to
silence political opposition.”

He said the ADC stood firmly against all forms of
dictatorship, whether military or civilian, and would support any legitimate
action taken to defend the constitution.