DSS files criminal charge against man for advocating coup on Social Media

The Department of State Services (DSS) has filed criminal charges against 27-year-old Innocent Onukwume for allegedly calling for a coup in Nigeria.

The six-count charge, numbered FHC/ABJ/CR/610/2025, was filed before a federal high court in Abuja by DSS counsel A. M. Danalami on Tuesday.

Onukwume, a resident of Umusayo Layout, Oyigbo LGA in Rivers State, allegedly made the controversial post in October via his verified X account (@theagroman), urging a “coup in Nigeria” and calling for the disposal of the APC-led government. The post reportedly read: “A coup in Nigeria is needed. Dispose of APC, suspend the Nigeria government and join the AES. That is all we need now.”

Following the incident, Onukwume’s X account has been suspended. The DSS stated that his actions violated provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2024 (as amended), noting that the post was intended to cause public fear and disturb public peace.

No date has yet been scheduled for Onukwume’s arraignment.

The case comes amid reports of a foiled coup attempt in October, in which military authorities arrested 16 suspects during preliminary investigations.

A source indicated that over 30 officers were in custody as of October 31, though the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has described the probe as a “routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism within the ranks.”