Abuja: Two of the suspected coup plotters admitted on Monday that they had knowledge of the plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s government in video recordings played at the Federal High Court in Abuja. Navy Capt. Erasmus Ochegobia Victor (rtd.) and Insp Ahmed Ibrahim, the second and third defendants, respectively, revealed their awareness during video recording sessions played in open court before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the video recordings, contained in a hard disc tendered by the prosecution lawyer Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, were admitted as evidence by the court despite objections from the defendants’ lawyers. The defence argued that their clients’ statements were not made voluntarily and opposed the recordings being played before they were admitted as evidence. However, Justice Abdulmalik overruled their objections, asserting that playing the recordings was standard practice and suggested that a trial-within-trial could be conducted to address the defence’s concerns.
The first interview session played in court was of retired Maj-Gen. Mohammed Gana, who said he retired from the Nigerian Army in 2010 and had lived a quiet life since. In the video, Gana acknowledged knowing the alleged mastermind of the plot, Col. M. A. Ma’aji, but denied any involvement in or awareness of a coup plot. Gana admitted sharing a coup speech and anti-government messages on WhatsApp but insisted he only forwarded them as received. While he denied participating in reconnaissance or fundraising efforts, he was questioned about a financial transfer linked to him in connection with the plot.
Retired Capt. Erasmus Victor admitted to knowing Ma’aji and being aware of the coup plot but failed to report it due to his relationship with Ma’aji. He claimed to have advised Ma’aji against the plan and suggested retirement instead. Victor denied providing financial support or assistance but confessed to continuing communication with Ma’aji using coded language. He expressed regret for not reporting the plot and appealed for clemency, citing his previous service in the Navy.
Police Insp Ahmed Ibrahim, attached to the State House, told investigators he was initially approached to assist with Ma’aji’s promotion but later discussions shifted to the coup plot. Ibrahim admitted participating in reconnaissance operations around the Presidential Villa and received funds for his involvement. He used coded terms to discuss the operation but maintained he merely played along due to misplaced judgment influenced by his relationship with Ma’aji.
NAN reports that investigators informed the defendants of the audio-visual recording’s purpose, aligning with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015. The recordings aimed to ensure statements were voluntarily obtained without duress or promises of favor, and defendants were reminded of their right to remain silent.