Nigeria Lines Up 30 Witnesses Against Alleged Coup Plotters

The Nigerian federal government is preparing to present 30 witnesses in a high-profile trial involving six individuals accused of conspiring to overthrow President Bola Tinubu's government. The accused, who include a retired army major general, a former navy captain, and a police inspector, face serious charges such as treason, financing terrorism, and money laundering.

PREMIUM TIMES previously revealed the names of over 40 individuals allegedly involved in the plot. The government has since filed 13 charges against six civilians and former military officers, while serving military personnel are undergoing court-martial proceedings. The charges assert violations of Nigerian laws, including conspiracy to wage war against the nation and unlawfully remove the president from office.

The prosecution's evidence, detailed in documents exclusively obtained by this newspaper and filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, includes testimonies from investigators, senior military officials, bank representatives, forensic experts, and civilian witnesses. The proof of evidence indicates the prosecution will present documentary exhibits, financial records, and forensic analysis of electronic devices.

Among the witnesses are officials from 13 financial institutions who are expected to provide bank records, representatives from three hotels where alleged meetings took place, and senior military officers who will testify on arms and ammunition custody. Civilian witnesses are expected to provide testimony related to alleged financial transactions and vehicle purchases linked to the conspiracy.