Proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday centred on video recordings of interrogation sessions involving three of six defendants accused of plotting to overthrow the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The videos, presented by the prosecution and admitted in evidence despite objections from defence lawyers, captured statements from retired Navy Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, and retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik overruled the objections to the admissibility of the recordings, noting that their use aligns with standard legal practice. She, however, ordered a trial-within-trial to determine whether the statements were made voluntarily.
In his recorded statement, Gana denied any knowledge of a coup plot, though he admitted knowing the alleged mastermind, Colonel M. A. Ma’aji. He said he was aware of Ma’aji’s frustrations over promotion but insisted he had no indication of any plan to overthrow the government.
He acknowledged forwarding a previous coup speech and anti-government messages via WhatsApp but maintained that he neither authored nor edited the materials. He also denied conducting reconnaissance or providing financial support for any alleged plot.
Victor, on the other hand, admitted being aware of discussions about overthrowing the government but said he did not report the matter due to his personal relationship with Ma’aji. He claimed he advised against the plan and did not participate in its execution.
The retired naval officer further disclosed that he was approached for financial support and logistical assistance, including accommodation for alleged plotters, but denied providing any such help. He expressed regret for not reporting the matter and appealed for leniency.
Inspector Ibrahim admitted receiving between N1.4 million and N1.5 million and participating in reconnaissance activities around the Presidential Villa. He said he took photographs of key locations and discussed possible access routes with the alleged plotters.
He also confirmed the use of coded language such as “fertiliser” and “farming” to refer to funding and operational plans, but insisted he did not take the plot seriously and only played along.
The court heard that investigators informed the suspects of their rights and recorded the sessions in line with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act to ensure transparency and voluntariness.
Further hearing in the case has been adjourned to Tuesday.
