Fresh Twist In Alleged Coup Case as Witness Reveals Huge Transactions, Hidden Meetings

The prosecution on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, formally opened its case in the fast-tracked trial of six individuals accused of plotting to overthrow the administration of President Bola Tinubu, presenting four witnesses before the court.

One of the principal witnesses, a personnel of the Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police identified as “AAA,” detailed how the alleged coup plot was uncovered and investigated.

Led in evidence by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Rotimi Oyedepo, the witness confirmed familiarity with all six defendants and stated that they were arrested in connection with an alleged conspiracy involving Colonel M. A. Ma’aji, other serving military officers, and civilians.

The witness told the court that the investigation began after the then Chief of Army Staff, General O. O. Oluyede, received an intelligence report alleging that Col. Ma’aji and others were planning to overthrow the government.

He said the intelligence report was assessed and found credible, prompting the Army leadership to order a full-scale investigation.

According to him, “After receiving the intelligence, it was carefully analysed and found to be credible, which led to the directive to investigate.”

The witness further disclosed that Col. Ma’aji was arrested, and during a search of his residence, investigators recovered a Samsung Galaxy phone and a notebook.

He told the court that the notebook allegedly contained sensitive material, including operational plans, names of government officials, and officers reportedly marked for assassination.

He added that the notebook also contained details of proposed political and structural changes intended to be implemented after the alleged coup.

The witness also said forensic examination of the mobile phone revealed what he described as detailed operational planning and connections between Ma’aji, other officers, and the defendants.

Investigators, he added, also uncovered financial links allegedly connecting the suspects to notable individuals, including former Bayelsa State Governor Timipre Sylva.

According to him, “We also found financial trails between Ma’aji, former Governor Timipre Sylva, and some of the defendants before the court.”

He further told the court that coded language allegedly used by the suspects was discovered during the investigation, along with evidence of financial transfers made to some of the defendants in connection with the alleged plot.

Alleged Funding Through Company

The witness also informed the court that a company identified as Purple Wave was allegedly used as a channel for funding the operation.

He said financial records obtained from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) revealed multiple suspicious transactions involving large cash withdrawals within a short period.

He listed several withdrawals allegedly made between September 19 and October 2, 2025, ranging from ₦70 million to ₦100 million.

Although the transactions were described as legitimate business payments, the witness claimed investigations showed the funds were diverted for other purposes.

“For instance, the ₦100 million described as payment for clearing debris along the coastal corridor was not used for that purpose but was instead utilised in furtherance of the alleged coup plan,” he stated.

The court also heard that several meetings allegedly took place in Abuja at locations including Green Land Apartment and BrookVille Hotel.

The witness said participants at these meetings reportedly discussed dissatisfaction with the government and expressed support for regime change.

He further alleged that the conspirators developed an operational plan, identifying key targets and strategic locations, including Niger Barracks, while also mapping out road control strategies.

According to him, the group also assigned roles, including plans for proposed agencies and institutional restructuring following the alleged takeover.

The witness added that the suspects reportedly engaged in consultations and traditional rituals as part of their preparations and received funds for these activities.

He also told the court that vehicles were acquired and later recovered while being modified for operational purposes, while hotel records confirmed meeting locations.

Court Proceedings

During the hearing, the prosecution tendered several exhibits, including hotel receipts and digital extracts, which were admitted into evidence by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik despite objections from defence counsel.

However, an attempt to tender a flash drive containing audio-visual evidence was opposed by the defence on procedural grounds. The prosecution subsequently conceded, and the court ruled that the material must first be served on the defence before it could be played.

Bank Officials Testify

Earlier in the proceedings, three bank officials testified, including compliance officers from Jaiz Bank and SunTrust Bank, as well as a legal officer from Providus Bank.

They presented account statements linked to some of the defendants, including Abdulkadir Sani, Purple Wave Ltd, and A & A Express Link.

The witnesses were later cross-examined by defence counsel.

Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the matter to May 4 and 5 for continuation of trial, with further testimony expected from additional prosecution witnesses.