Sylva, Five Others Docked Over Alleged Coup Plot, Families Speak Out
By Wellington Jopelo
The Federal Government is set to arraign six suspects before a Federal High Court in Abuja over an alleged plot to destabilise Nigeria’s government. The move marks a major development in an investigation that has drawn nationwide attention.
Those to be arraigned include retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Naval Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani. Former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, is also named in the charge but is currently at large.
The defendants are facing multiple counts, including conspiracy, attempted treason, terrorism-related offences, and money laundering. Authorities allege that the group worked together in 2025 on plans capable of undermining the country’s constitutional order.
According to the prosecution, the accused allegedly conspired to challenge the authority of the President and were involved in discussions linked to actions against the state. They are also accused of failing to report knowledge of a planned treasonable act involving Colonel Mohammed Alhassan Ma’aji.
The government further claims the defendants did not take reasonable steps to prevent the alleged plot despite being aware of it. Prosecutors argue that such inaction violates provisions of the law on national security.
Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim and Zekeri Umoru are specifically accused of attending meetings said to be connected to the alleged plot. Investigators claim the meetings were aimed at promoting ideas that could destabilise Nigeria.
Financial dealings are also central to the case. Abdulkadir Sani is alleged to have received about N2 million linked to suspicious transactions, while Bukar Kashim Goni allegedly retained about N50 million traced to accounts under investigation.
Zekeri Umoru is accused of receiving N10 million in cash and holding N8.8 million in his account, while Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim allegedly received N1 million from the same source. Authorities believe the funds may be tied to unlawful activities.
The case is part of a broader investigation into an alleged coup plot that has already led to arrests within military and security circles. Several officers have been detained as inquiries continue.
In recent months, security agencies disclosed that internal findings pointed to a plan to overthrow the government. Officials said those implicated would face both civilian trials and military disciplinary processes.
While the six defendants are being tried in a civilian court, other serving officers are expected to face court martial proceedings. This has created uncertainty over how the cases will unfold.
Families of detained officers have continued protests, demanding transparency and access to their relatives. They insist that those accused should be given fair treatment and speedy trials.
Some relatives say they were only recently allowed to meet with lawyers after months without access. They described the development as progress but said more clarity is still needed.
There is also confusion among families about who will face civilian prosecution and who will be tried by the military. This uncertainty has added to growing concerns.
Legal experts say the charges are serious and could attract severe penalties if proven. Treason-related offences remain among the most serious crimes under Nigerian law.
The court is expected to begin proceedings, with both the prosecution and defence preparing for what could be a lengthy and closely watched trial.