Alleged Coup Plot Against Tinubu: Retired Navy Captain, Police Inspector Admit Knowledge

Their admissions were contained in video-recorded statements made during investigative interviews, which were played before a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Monday.

A third defendant, retired Major-General Mohammed Gana, however, denied any involvement or knowledge of the alleged coup plan.

The prosecution presented the video evidence through a hard drive, but defence lawyers challenged its admissibility, arguing that the statements were not voluntarily made. They also objected to the public playback of the recordings, saying they had not yet been formally admitted as evidence.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik overruled the objections and allowed the recordings to be played in court, noting that the concerns raised would be addressed through a trial-within-trial to determine whether the statements were obtained voluntarily.

During his interview, Gana said he retired from the Nigerian Army in 2010 as Chief of Defence Logistics and had since lived a quiet life. He acknowledged knowing the alleged organiser of the plot but insisted he had no knowledge of any plan to overthrow the government. He also denied involvement in surveillance activities or funding arrangements, though he admitted forwarding certain messages and a historical coup speech via WhatsApp, stating he did not originate them.

Erasmus Victor admitted he was aware of discussions about overthrowing the government but said he discouraged the idea, claiming the alleged mastermind was motivated by frustration over delayed promotion. He further admitted he was approached for financial and logistical support but said he refused to participate, although he continued communicating with the suspect using coded language. He expressed regret for not reporting the matter to authorities.

Police Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim also admitted involvement, saying he was initially contacted to assist with promotion-related lobbying before discussions shifted to the alleged coup plan. He acknowledged receiving between ₦1.4 million and ₦1.5 million and carrying out reconnaissance around the Presidential Villa, including Aguda House. He also confirmed the use of coded terms to disguise communications but claimed he did not take the plan seriously.

According to the prosecution, all interview sessions were recorded in compliance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, with defendants informed of their rights before questioning.

The court adjourned the matter to Tuesday at 11 a.m. for continuation of hearing.