Abuja coup plot admissions revealed in court as suspects acknowledge prior knowledge of alleged plan to overthrow President Tinubu

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court on Monday heard startling video evidence in which retired Navy Captain Erasmus Victor and Police Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim admitted awareness of an alleged plot to overthrow the government of President Bola Tinubu.

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The Abuja coup plot admissions emerged during proceedings in open court, where prosecutors played recorded interrogation sessions, drawing intense attention as details of the alleged conspiracy unfolded.

In the footage, Erasmus Victor stated that the alleged mastermind, Col. M. A. Ma’aji, had informed him of intentions to “overthrow the system” following grievances linked to a stalled promotion.

Erasmus Victor said he advised against the move but failed to alert authorities due to a personal relationship, a decision he described as deeply regrettable.

“I feel so bad that I find myself in this situation,” Erasmus Victor said in the recording, appealing for leniency and attributing his involvement to poor judgment.

Ahmed Ibrahim also acknowledged prior knowledge of discussions that evolved from efforts to assist with career advancement into what investigators described as a coordinated plan to topple the government.

Ahmed Ibrahim admitted receiving between ₦1.4 million and ₦1.5 million and conducting reconnaissance around the Presidential Villa, including photographing sensitive locations and identifying possible access routes.

Prosecutors told the court that coded language such as “fertiliser” and “farming” was allegedly used to conceal operational discussions and funding arrangements, adding a troubling dimension to the case.

Despite the admissions, both Erasmus Victor and Ahmed Ibrahim denied active participation in executing any coup plan, maintaining that their actions stemmed from personal associations rather than deliberate intent.

Earlier evidence also featured retired Major-General Mohammed Gana, who acknowledged knowing the alleged mastermind but denied any awareness of a coup plot, stating that messages he forwarded were shared without understanding their implications.

Defence counsel challenged the admissibility of the video recordings, arguing that the statements were not made voluntarily. However, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik overruled the objections and ordered the evidence to be played, noting that its validity would be further examined in a trial-within-trial.

The Abuja coup plot admissions have intensified concerns over national security, particularly following revelations of alleged reconnaissance activities around the seat of power.

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Proceedings were adjourned to 5 May for continuation, as the court prepares to scrutinise the evidence in greater detail.