A senior intelligence official told PRNigeria that the cleric is under investigation by a joint team from the Nigerian Military and the Department of State Services (DSS) over alleged links to a suspected coup plot targeting President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The source said the probe was triggered by a financial transaction traced to Sheikh Khalifa’s bank account, where about ₦2 million was reportedly transferred by a military officer allegedly involved in the attempted coup.

“Sheikh Khalifa is alive and healthy in protective custody. His detention followed the discovery of funds in his account sent from one of the military officers suspected in the coup attempt,” the official stated, adding that the cleric would remain in custody until the investigation concludes.

However, family sources have disputed the allegations, insisting the transfer was a routine spiritual offering. They claimed the officer obtained the scholar’s bank account details through a student and sent the money as a request for prayers and blessings.

“There was no political discussion, no criminal intent—just a request for prayers,” a family source said.

Sheikh Khalifa’s disappearance had previously sparked nationwide concern after he traveled to Abuja to address the sudden freezing of his bank account. His family lost contact with him shortly after the trip, fueling fears over his whereabouts.

Meanwhile, his legal team has filed a Fundamental Rights suit seeking his release. The case, FHC/ABJ/CS/55/2026, has been heard twice at the Federal High Court in Abuja—on February 18 and March 13, 2026—and has been adjourned to April 10, 2026, for final judgment.

The intelligence official noted that Sheikh Khalifa could face prosecution alongside other suspects once the investigation is completed. “He would soon be arraigned in court for prosecution after the investigation concludes,” the source said.