Investigation records obtained by Premium Times have revealed that Nigerian Army Colonel Mohammed Ma'aji, the alleged mastermind of the 2025 coup plot against President Bola Tinubu's government, sought spiritual backing from Islamic clerics before the planned takeover. The documents, now part of the prosecution's evidence before the Federal High Court in Abuja, claim the officer approached clerics for prayers and spiritual support. However, the clerics told investigators they rejected the idea of a violent takeover and instead tried to convince him to abandon the plan.
Cleric Bukar Goni Admits Receiving Millions in Transfers
One of the clerics, Bukar Goni, said he first met Ma'aji after the colonel repeatedly failed examinations required for promotion to brigadier general. Goni claimed the officer believed some senior military officials were deliberately frustrating his career advancement. According to the cleric, he advised Ma'aji to give sadaka (alms) and continue praying. Goni admitted receiving transfers ranging from ₦300,000 to ₦1 million, followed by approximately ₦10 million within 15 days, and then two separate payments of ₦20 million each. In total, these payments exceeded ₦50 million. Goni insisted he believed the money was intended for prayers and the construction of a mosque, not to support a coup.
Dream Interpretation Used to Discourage Plot
Goni further claimed he used a dream interpretation to dissuade Ma'aji from proceeding. According to his statement, the colonel later reported a dream in which insects covered his legs. Goni interpreted this as a warning that the planned action would end in disaster. The cleric maintained that he never accepted money to support a coup and consistently encouraged the colonel to abandon any such plans.
Second Cleric Warns of Betrayal
Another cleric, Abdulkadir Sani, said Ma'aji initially asked only for prayers. He later learned about the alleged coup through an intermediary and warned that it would fail because, as he stated, "there are two people who will betray them." Sani's warning has become a key part of the prosecution's narrative, highlighting internal dissent within the alleged conspiracy.
Six Suspects Face Treason and Terrorism Charges
Six suspects are standing trial on charges including treason, terrorism, and money laundering. The allegations remain before the court, and the defendants have not yet been convicted. In separate developments, investigators alleged that the coup plotters purchased 32 Golf cars and SUVs to support covert operations, reconnaissance, and discreet movements linked to the planned takeover. Security sources confirmed that recovered documents include receipts and transaction records showing how the vehicles were financed and distributed among members of the alleged network.
Court Proceedings Continue
The case continues at the Federal High Court in Abuja, with the prosecution presenting evidence of the spiritual backing sought by Ma'aji and the substantial financial transfers to the clerics. The accused maintain their innocence as the legal process unfolds.
