In a surprising development at the ongoing alleged coup trial, Zekari Umoru, one of the defendants, told a Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday that he had been misled by other suspects involved in the case.
Umoru, who works with Julius Berger Nigeria Plc in the Maintenance Department of the Presidential Villa, made the claim during the presentation of video evidence before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik.
In the recorded statement, Umoru said his involvement began in May 2025 after he was introduced by co-defendant Ahmed Ibrahim to a man identified as Hassan Mohammed, later revealed to be “Col. Mohammed Ma’aji.” He explained that he initially believed the man was a civilian contractor offering electrical jobs.
According to him, he received several cash payments from Ma’aji, including a major sum of ₦8.8 million, which he deposited in a branch of Zenith Bank, as well as an additional ₦2 million the following day.
Umoru told investigators that he later became suspicious and sought clarification, but was allegedly told that the funds were linked to dissatisfaction with the state of the country and plans to “sanitise the government.” He, however, insisted he had no knowledge of any concrete plot to overthrow the government of Bola Tinubu.
He also narrated how he once facilitated access for one of the suspects into the Presidential Villa, noting that the individual took photographs in his office without authorisation—an action he said he cautioned against.
Maintaining his innocence, Umoru said he would have distanced himself from the suspects had he known their true identities or intentions. He expressed regret and apologised to his employers, while affirming loyalty to the government.
Another video evidence involving Imam Kassim Goni was also presented in court. The cleric denied any involvement in the alleged plot, stating that funds he received were strictly for prayers and charitable activities.
However, prosecutors highlighted discrepancies between his claims and financial records, pointing to transactions amounting to millions of naira, including a ₦10 million transfer prior to the period he referenced.
The case, filed by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, involves six defendants facing a 13-count charge bordering on treason, terrorism, failure to disclose security intelligence, and alleged terrorism financing.
Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the trial to May 11, 12, and 13 for continuation of proceedings.
