The Nigerian Police Force has declared Andrew Wynne, also known as Andrew Povich or Drew Povey, a British national, wanted for allegedly plotting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s government.
In a statement on Monday, police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi revealed that the Force has launched a comprehensive investigation into how foreign mercenaries and subversive elements are attempting to undermine Nigeria’s democratically-elected government.
Adejobi, an Assistant Commissioner of Police, explained that Wynne had rented a space at Labour House in Abuja under the guise of operating an ‘Iva Valley Bookshop’ and establishing ‘STARS of Nations Schools’ as a cover for his alleged subversive activities.
Documentary evidence and confessions reportedly show that Wynne directed and monitored the progress of the August protests. He is accused of providing financial and operational support aimed at achieving an unconstitutional regime change in Nigeria.
“The Nigeria Police Force has initiated a thorough investigation into the activities of this foreign national and his associates, who are plotting to destabilize our government through violent and illegal means,” Adejobi stated.
The investigation has led to the arrest of nine suspects who are believed to have received substantial financial backing from foreign sources to incite violence and create unrest.
The announcement follows recent arrests made by the Department of State Services (DSS) during the protests, including some Polish nationals who were later released after being confirmed to have no involvement in the protests.
Additionally, the police had previously invited Comrade Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), for questioning regarding Wynne, who is a tenant at Labour House. Although Ajaero honored the invitation, the police have since issued a reinvitation.
