The Federal High Court in Abuja has viewed video recordings of investigators’ interviews with three of the six defendants standing trial over an alleged plot to overthrow the government of President Bola Tinubu.
The recordings, presented by the prosecution, showed that two of the defendants admitted being aware of the alleged coup plot, while a retired Major General, Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, denied any knowledge of it.
Defence counsel had earlier objected to the admissibility of the videos, arguing that the statements were not made voluntarily. They also opposed playing the recordings in open court before they were formally admitted as evidence.
However, the presiding judge, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, overruled the objections and ordered that the videos be played, describing the move as standard practice. She noted the concerns raised by the defence and said the court would conduct a trial-within-trial to determine whether the statements were made voluntarily.
In his recorded interview, Gana said his name was linked to the alleged plot following a ₦2 million transfer traced to him. He admitted sharing, via WhatsApp, a copy of a coup speech previously read by Joshua Dongayaro, as well as forwarding messages containing anti-government rhetoric.
He maintained, however, that he neither originated nor edited the materials, insisting he only shared them as received.
The retired general also denied allegations that he conducted reconnaissance at the Presidential Villa or took part in efforts to raise funds for the plot, including claims that he sourced billions of naira from a former governor.
He told investigators that an individual identified as Ma’aji had expressed frustration over a stalled promotion and, “out of anger,” allegedly made comments about overthrowing the system.
Another defendant, in the video, admitted receiving between ₦1.4 million and ₦1.5 million and taking part in reconnaissance activities around the Presidential Villa, including Aguda House. He said he took photographs of parts of the terrain, including the President’s residence and surrounding areas, and discussed possible access routes.
Investigators stated in the recordings that the interview sessions were documented to ensure that statements were made voluntarily and without coercion, torture, or promises of favour. They also informed the defendants of their right to remain silent.
The case was adjourned, with further hearing scheduled for Tuesday at 11 a.m.
