EXCLUSIVE: Messaging apps alleged coup conspirators used for communication

Investigators are scrutinizing the communication methods employed by alleged conspirators in a plot against Nigerian President Bola Tinubu's government. The focus is on messaging applications, particularly WhatsApp and the more privacy-focused Zangi.

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The platforms were more than communication tools. They became part of the leads investigators followed while trying to reconstruct the alleged conspirators’ plans and determine who played what roles in the alleged plot which the authorities busted in September last year.

The choice of platforms is significant, as investigators are using them to reconstruct the alleged plotters' plans and identify roles. Zangi, known for its end-to-end encryption and a company policy of not storing user communication histories, was allegedly introduced to a retired navy captain by a Nigerian Army colonel, Mohammed Ma’aji, who considered it more secure than conventional phone calls.

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Mr Victor told investigators that the suspected mastermind, Mohammed Ma’aji, a Nigerian Army colonel, introduced him to Zangi because he considered it more secure than conventional telephone calls.

The retired captain, Erasmus Victor, faces charges including treason. In his statement to military investigators, he detailed how he was approached to recruit financiers for the coup. Victor claimed he downloaded Zangi specifically to communicate with Ma’aji and another officer, Shamsuddeen Bappah, but stated he did not take the plot seriously and regretted not reporting it. The investigation records, obtained by PREMIUM TIMES, shed light on how these digital tools became central to uncovering the alleged conspiracy.

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He said he was asked to pitch the coup to several potential sponsors, including Mr Wike, to get their buy-in and financial support, but never contacted any of them.