Step Rights Magazine Pralarg Magazine
By Step Rights Magazine
The ongoing alleged coup trial against persons accused of plotting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration took a dramatic turn in Abuja after a Presidential Villa worker allegedly admitted involvement in meetings linked to plans to “sanitize the government.”
Zekeri Umoru, an employee in the maintenance department of the Presidential Villa working under Julius Berger Nigeria, told investigators in a video-recorded statement that he was introduced to key figures in the alleged plot through Police Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim of the Presidential Clinic.
According to the statement played before the Federal High Court, Umoru said he met a man identified as Hassan Mohammed, later revealed to be Colonel Mohammed “Ma’aji,” whom he initially believed was a businessman offering him electrical work contracts.
Investigators told the court that large sums of money allegedly exchanged hands during the meetings, including a “Ghana Must Go” bag containing ₦8.8 million and another ₦2 million allegedly delivered the following day.
The prosecution further alleged that discussions involved gaining access into the Presidential Villa through an ambulance driver and acquiring “work tools,” raising suspicions of a broader conspiracy against the government.
Despite the explosive allegations, Umoru denied knowingly participating in any coup plot, insisting that he was misled and unaware of any concrete plan to overthrow the government.
He also admitted escorting one of the alleged associates into the Presidential Villa, where the visitor allegedly took photographs before being cautioned.
The court also viewed the statement of Islamic cleric Sheikh Imam Kassim Goni, who denied involvement in the alleged coup and insisted millions transferred to him were strictly for prayers and charity.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik adjourned the matter to May 11, 12 and 13 for continuation of trial.
