Secret Files Reveal Alleged Coup Network, Codewords & Transition Agenda
By NJORIGE LYNUS
Thousands of Pages Shed New Light on Alleged Coup Investigation
CONFIDENTIAL investigative records have revealed extensive details about an alleged conspiracy by serving and retired military personnel accused of plotting to overthrow Nigeria’s civilian government, offering fresh insight into what investigators describe as one of the country’s most elaborate alleged coup plans in recent years.
The documents, reportedly exceeding 7,400 pages, contain witness statements, financial records, internal correspondence, digital conversations and documentary exhibits gathered during months of investigation.
Authorities allege the materials demonstrate careful planning involving military targets, airports, communication facilities and the Presidential Villa.
The allegations remain before the courts, where the accused persons continue to challenge key aspects of the prosecution’s evidence.
A Carefully Structured Alleged Operation
According to investigators, the alleged conspirators sought to seize strategic military formations while simultaneously taking control of national institutions capable of influencing security and public communication.
Military investigators identified Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji as the principal coordinator alongside several serving officers and one retired officer who remains wanted.
Investigative documents suggest meetings were held over an extended period during which operational responsibilities, logistics and communication strategies were discussed.
Authorities believe the alleged planning evolved into a structured operation assigning responsibilities to individual participants.
Secret Communication Through Agricultural Terminology
One of the most unusual aspects of the investigation concerns the communication methods allegedly adopted by participants.
Investigators say ordinary agricultural expressions became coded operational language.
The alleged conspirators reportedly referred to themselves as farmers, logistics became fertilisers, execution day became harvest, while religious supporters were called technical partners.
Execution timing was reportedly described using the military expressions D-Day and H-Hour.
Authorities believe this terminology helped conceal discussions from outsiders while allowing participants to understand operational instructions.
Targets Included Military Commands & National Infrastructure
Investigators allege that strategic installations formed the centrepiece of the operational design.
According to statements made by suspects, participants were assigned to secure military formations, broadcasting facilities, Air Force installations, divisional headquarters and the Presidential Villa.
Investigators also allege that airports in Abuja and Lagos were identified as priority objectives because uninterrupted air traffic could undermine any attempted takeover.
Evidence before the court suggests plans included blocking airport operations through the deployment of military vehicles onto runways while reconnaissance was reportedly conducted ahead of time.
Presidential Villa Featured Prominently
Court proceedings have also revealed allegations concerning preparations involving the Presidential Villa.
A witness employed within the Villa reportedly informed investigators that discussions included disrupting electricity supply before the operation commenced.
According to his testimony, he discouraged the proposal because it could immediately alert security authorities.
The witness further alleged that discussions involved recruiting insiders capable of facilitating access into the Presidential complex.
Investigators say these claims form part of the broader evidence currently under judicial consideration.
Military Resources & Operational Readiness
Statements reviewed by investigators indicate that several officers allegedly pledged troops, vehicles, gun trucks and weapons from different military formations if the operation proceeded.
Investigators also allege that naval personnel, special forces and various battalions were expected to contribute manpower and equipment.
According to the documents, operational readiness remained dependent upon sufficient logistical support before a final execution date could be approved.
Disagreement Over Violence
The investigative records suggest participants differed over how force should be applied.
Some suspects reportedly argued that senior military officers should only be detained to secure cooperation after the takeover.
Others allegedly suggested stronger measures might become necessary if resistance emerged.
Investigators say these conflicting accounts demonstrate that discussions concerning the use of force remained unsettled before the alleged conspiracy was disrupted.
Plans for Government After the Takeover
One of the most significant findings contained in the investigative files relates to the alleged transition arrangements.
According to investigators, Colonel Ma’aji allegedly intended to assume leadership of the country following a successful operation.
The documents claim preparations included plans to announce new military leadership, occupy the Presidential Villa and establish a new governing structure.
Statements from suspects also suggest discussions took place regarding future appointments for members of the alleged group, including ministerial offices, security positions and other senior government roles.
Investigators regard these discussions as evidence that planning extended beyond military operations into governance.
Court Determines Next Phase
The allegations continue to be examined through criminal proceedings before both military and civilian courts.
The accused persons are facing charges that include treason, terrorism, money laundering and related offences.
Defence lawyers continue to contest the admissibility of statements, video recordings and other exhibits, arguing that investigators failed to observe statutory safeguards during evidence collection.
The prosecution maintains that all investigative procedures complied with applicable legal requirements.
No verdict has been delivered, and the courts are expected to determine both the admissibility of disputed evidence and the merits of the case as proceedings continue.
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