Nigerian Army Confirms Coup Plot, Links Ex‑Governor Sylva to Multi‑Million Naira Transfers

Context The Federal High Court in Abuja heard testimony from a shielded member of the Army Corps of Military Police. The witness, identified only as “AAA,” described an investigation launched after the Chief of Army Staff received an intelligence tip about Colonel M. A. Ma’aji’s plot to overthrow the democratically elected government.

Key Facts - The court confirmed that six individuals – retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Naval Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Police Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim and three civilians – were arrested for involvement in the scheme. - A Samsung Galaxy phone seized from Colonel Ma’aji contained operational plans, code words and financial trails linking the colonel, the defendants and former Governor Timipre Sylva, who fled the country before the plot was uncovered. - Investigators recovered a handwritten jotter that listed targeted officials, proposed political restructuring and structural changes to be imposed after a successful coup. - Financial records supplied by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission showed Purple Wave moving large sums: debit entries of N100 million and N50 million on 19 September 2025, repeated similar transfers on 22, 24 and 26 September, and additional payments of N70 million, N80 million, N90 million on later dates. The witness said the stated purposes – such as “clearing debris along the coastal corridor” – were false, and the money funded the coup. - Meetings cited by the witness took place at Green Land Apartment and BrookVille Hotel in Abuja, where plotters discussed logistics and target lists.

What It Means The army’s admission validates long‑standing claims that elements within the security forces were prepared to destabilise Tinubu’s administration. The involvement of a former governor and the scale of the financial transfers suggest a network that extends beyond active military officers to civilian financiers. Ongoing investigations by the EFCC and the military will likely focus on tracing the remaining funds, securing any co‑conspirators abroad, and preventing similar plots.

Looking ahead, watch for further court filings, possible extradition requests for Sylva, and any legislative moves to tighten oversight of military‑linked financial activities.