Rumored Coup Attempt: Why Nigeria Must Guard Democracy at All Costs

By Dr. Michael Omoruyi – iNewsAfrica Op-Ed Columnist

In recent days, Nigeria has been shaken by swirling rumors of an alleged coup attempt against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. Though the military has swiftly dismissed these claims as unfounded, the very notion of a coup in 2025 reminds us how fragile democracy can be — and how quickly whispers of discontent can ignite public anxiety in a nation with a turbulent past.

While the Defense Headquarters has reiterated its loyalty to the Constitution and assured Nigerians that there is no threat to civilian rule, the episode should not be taken lightly. Even a rumor of military intervention is a dangerous echo of our painful history — a reminder of how close chaos can lurk beneath the surface of our political frustrations.

The Ghosts of Coups Past

Nigeria’s post-independence history is littered with the wreckage of coups. From the tragic events of January 1966 through successive military takeovers, the cycle of power seized by force left deep scars on our collective psyche. Each coup began with the promise of salvation — to end corruption, restore order, or deliver progress — yet each one only deepened mistrust, widened divisions, and derailed our democratic evolution.

Those who romanticize military rule forget its heavy price. Coups do not cure corruption; they conceal it. They do not build nations; they break them. As history has shown, power seized through the barrel of a gun never brings peace — only prolonged pain.

Democracy Is Imperfect, But It Is Ours

Yes, Nigerians are weary — of hardship, insecurity, unemployment, and rising costs of living. But to flirt with the idea of a coup, even in rumor, is to invite national ruin. The ballot remains our strongest tool for reform. The gun may silence a few, but it cannot represent the many.

Our democracy, fragile as it may be, is still our best path forward. What Nigeria needs is accountability, not anarchy; leadership renewal, not rebellion; justice, not judgment by force. The solution lies in reforming systems, empowering citizens, and holding leaders to their oaths — not returning to the shadows of barracks rule.

A Time to Reaffirm Civilian Control

The military’s prompt dismissal of these rumors should be commended. It reinforces the institution’s understanding that its duty lies in protecting the nation — not governing it. Nigerians must, however, remain vigilant. We must demand transparency, good governance, and respect for the constitution from those in power, while firmly rejecting any attempt — real or imagined — to derail democratic order.

The Road Ahead

Let this moment serve as a national reflection. The rumor of a coup is not just gossip; it is a test of our democratic maturity. Our response must be unity, calm, and a renewed commitment to the rule of law.

Nigeria cannot afford another detour into darkness. The future will not be written in barracks or by bullets — but by ballots, ideas, and collective resolve.

When we awaken in the morning, let us remember yesterday — and vow never to repeat it.

About the Author:
Dr. Michael O. Omoruyi is the Founder of iNewsAfrica and an advocate for digital sovereignty, democracy, and responsible leadership across Africa. He is also the author of “From Grit to Grace: A Memoir of Roots, Resilience, and Reinvention.”

Dr. Omoruyi’s memoir launches across Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other bookstores Worldwide – October 21, 2025

Follow iNewsAfrica channel on WhatsApp:

https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbAPrqI96H4JXXQrKP1V