Fresh details have emerged at the Federal High Court in Abuja as the Nigerian Army confirmed the existence of a plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s government.
The revelation came during an ongoing trial involving six individuals accused of masterminding the alleged coup.
A witness from the Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police, whose identity was concealed by the court, testified against the defendants.
He spoke as part of the prosecution’s case and gave insight into how the plot was uncovered and investigated.
Those standing trial include retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Naval Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Police Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, and three others—Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani. The case is marked FHC/ABJ/CR/206/2026.
The prosecution also linked former Bayelsa State governor, Timipre Sylva, to the case. He was said to have fled the country before the plot was uncovered and is currently at large.
According to the witness, the investigation began after the Chief of Army Staff received intelligence about a planned takeover. The report allegedly pointed to Colonel Mohammed Alhassan Ma’aji and others as key actors in the scheme.
The intelligence was reviewed and found credible. This led to a directive for a full investigation. Security operatives then moved in and arrested Col. Ma’aji. During the operation, a Samsung phone and a jotter were recovered from him.
The witness told the court that the jotter contained sensitive details. These included operational plans, names of top government officials, and officers allegedly marked as targets. It also outlined proposed changes to government structure after the coup.
Further analysis of the phone reportedly revealed deeper connections. The device contained communications and plans linking the accused persons with the alleged plot. Investigators also discovered coded messages used among the suspects.
Financial records played a key role in the investigation. The witness said there were money trails connecting the defendants, Col. Ma’aji, and Timipre Sylva. According to him, several payments were made to support the alleged operation.
A company identified as Purple Wave was also mentioned in court. It was described as a channel used to move funds linked to the plot. Records obtained with the help of the EFCC showed multiple transactions running into hundreds of millions of naira.
The court heard that large sums were moved within September and October 2025. Though labelled for business purposes, investigators said the funds were diverted for the coup plan.
Meetings were allegedly held at different locations in Abuja, including Green Land Apartment and BrookVille Hotel. The witness said discussions at these meetings focused on removing the current government.
He added that the suspects allegedly mapped out targets. These included military barracks and strategic roads. Plans were also made to seize key locations during the operation.
According to the testimony, roles were shared among the plotters. They also discussed forming a new structure of government if the plan succeeded. Some of the accused were said to have taken part in consultations and other preparations.
Vehicles were also reportedly purchased and modified. These were allegedly intended for use during the operation. Receipts and other documents linked to hotel bookings were recovered by investigators.
During proceedings, the court admitted several documents as evidence. These included financial records, phone extracts, and written statements made by the defendants.
A flash drive containing video recordings of the suspects’ statements was also presented. However, the defence raised objections over how the evidence was filed. The court ordered that the materials be shared with defence lawyers before being played.
Earlier, the Federal Government requested that some witnesses be allowed to testify anonymously. The court granted the request, citing security concerns due to the sensitive nature of the case.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ruled that the protection of witnesses was necessary. She stated that their identities would not be disclosed in public records.
The defendants face serious charges. These include treason, terrorism, and money laundering. The government alleged that they conspired to wage war against the state and failed to report the planned act.
They were also accused of assisting the alleged mastermind by not informing authorities. Prosecutors argued that they did not take steps to prevent the plot.
The accused persons have denied all allegations. They pleaded not guilty when they were arraigned on April 22. They remain in custody of the DSS.
The court has adjourned the case to May 4 and 5 for continuation of hearing.
