An Islamic cleric, Bukar Kashim Goni, on Tuesday told the Federal High Court in Abuja that over N10 million traced to his bank account was received for prayers, denying any link to an alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu.
Goni is among six defendants standing trial over an alleged plan to overthrow the Federal Government in a case instituted by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation.
At the resumed hearing before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, the court viewed video evidence showing the cleric’s interaction with investigators.
During the session, security operatives confronted Goni with financial records indicating multiple transfers allegedly linked to the prime suspect, Mohammed Ma’aji. The cleric, however, maintained that the funds were strictly for “prayers and charitable purposes.”
He told investigators that he relocated to Karu in Abuja after fleeing insurgency in Maiduguri and became acquainted with Ma’aji through religious engagements. According to him, the alleged mastermind sought spiritual support over personal challenges, including delayed promotion.
Despite his denial, investigators pointed to discrepancies in his claims, noting that records showed funds had been transferred to him as early as March 2023, months before the issues he cited. They also highlighted transactions running into millions, including a N10 million transfer allegedly made in October 2024.
The cleric was further questioned over conversations referencing “access” and “work tools,” which investigators said suggested possible links to a broader operation. Goni, however, insisted he had no knowledge of any unlawful plan and was not involved in political or military activities.
In a related development, another defendant, Zekari Umoru, told the court in a separate video that he was misled into dealings with Ma’aji. He denied involvement in any coup attempt but admitted receiving cash, including a “Ghana Must Go” bag said to contain about N8.8 million, which he claimed was tied to business arrangements.
The Federal Government alleged that the defendants conspired in September 2025 to wage war against the state and failed to report intelligence about the planned act, contrary to provisions of the Criminal Code and the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Other defendants in the trial include retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Naval Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, and Abdulkadir Sani.
All the accused persons had earlier pleaded not guilty to the 13-count charge and are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services.
Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the case until May 11, 12 and 13 for continuation of trial.
