Court gavel
Proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja featured the playing of video recordings involving three defendants accused of plotting to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
In the footage, retired Navy Captain Erasmus Victor and Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim admitted they were aware of the alleged coup plot, while retired Major General Mohammed Gana denied any involvement.
The recordings were submitted by the prosecution, though defence lawyers objected, arguing that the statements were not made voluntarily and should not yet be played in court.
Presiding judge, Joyce Abdulmalik, overruled the objections, stating that playing such recordings is standard practice.
She, however, ordered a trial-within-trial to determine whether the statements were obtained voluntarily.
Gana told investigators he knew the alleged mastermind, Colonel Ma’aji, but was unaware of any coup plans and would have reported if he had known.
He admitted forwarding a past coup speech and other messages but denied taking part in any planning or reconnaissance.
Victor acknowledged being aware of the plot but said he advised against it and expressed regret, stating, “I feel so bad that I find myself in this situation” and “I am pleading for clemency.”
Inspector Ibrahim admitted receiving money, conducting reconnaissance around the Presidential Villa, and using coded terms like “fertiliser” and “farming” in discussions.
The court adjourned the case to May 6, 2026, for continuation of trial proceedings.
