The Federal High Court on Wednesday began accelerated hearing in the trial of six men accused of plotting to overthrow the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The prosecution opened its case with four witnesses, including a protected member of the Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police identified as “AAA.”
The witness revealed he was part of an investigative team set up after intelligence reports reached the Chief of Army Staff, General O.O. Oluyede, alleging a coup plot involving Colonel M.A. Ma’aji and others.
According to the witness, the intelligence was verified and deemed credible, prompting a joint investigation by the Nigerian Army and the Department of State Services (DSS).
This operation led to the arrest of the six defendants currently standing trial.
During the investigation, security operatives arrested Col. Ma’aji, seized his Samsung Galaxy phone, and searched his residence.
A jotter recovered from the residence reportedly contained:
- Operational plans for the coup
- Names of top government officials
- Targets marked for assassination
- Proposed political restructuring after the takeover
Forensic examination of the phone revealed detailed plans and connections between Col. Ma’aji, other officers, and the defendants.
Investigators also discovered coded language used among the alleged plotters.
The witness disclosed financial links between Col. Ma’aji, former Governor Timipre Sylva, and some of the defendants.
He added that funds were transferred to support the alleged coup plot.
A company named Purple Wave was identified as a conduit for financing the operation.
Financial records obtained from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) showed multiple large transactions, including:
- N100m and N50m on September 19, 2025
- Similar transactions on September 22 and 24
- Additional payments ranging from N70m to N90m through early October
Though labeled for other purposes, investigators claimed the funds were used for the coup.
The witness stated that several meetings were held in Abuja locations such as Green Land Apartment and BrookVille Hotel.
During these meetings:
- Anti-government discussions took place
- Plans for regime change were agreed upon
- Key targets, including military barracks, were identified
The plot reportedly included:
- Assassination of top officials
- Seizure of strategic roads and locations
- Attacks on military facilities
Participants also allegedly shared government positions among themselves in anticipation of success.
The witness claimed the group engaged in consultations and divination as part of their plans.
Funds were allegedly used to:
- Pay participants
- Purchase and modify vehicles for operational use
Documents, including hotel receipts and phone extracts, were admitted as evidence despite objections from defence lawyers.
However, the court ruled that audio-visual recordings of statements must first be shared with the defence before being played.
Earlier witnesses included compliance officers from Jaiz Bank and SunTrust Bank, and a legal officer from Providus Bank.
They presented account statements linked to the defendants and companies allegedly involved in the plot.
The court adjourned the case to May 4 and 5 at 11 a.m., when the fourth prosecution witness is expected to continue testimony.
