At the resumed hearing on Tuesday, May 5, the court, presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, reviewed video evidence showing investigators confronting the cleric with financial records of multiple transfers allegedly linked to the main suspect, Col. Mohammed Ma’aji.
Responding to the allegations, Sheikh Goni denied any involvement in a coup plot, insisting that all funds he received were strictly for spiritual services and charitable purposes. He maintained that his relationship with the military officer was purely religious, claiming Ma’aji sought prayers over personal and career challenges, including delayed promotions.
However, the prosecution pointed to bank records indicating that the transfers dated back to March 2023—months before the issues he cited—and that a ₦10 million payment was made in October 2024.
Investigators also highlighted messages and discussions allegedly referencing “access” and “work tools,” which they argued suggested coordination beyond religious activities.
Despite this, Sheikh Goni maintained his innocence, stating he had no knowledge of any illegal plan or involvement in political or military activities. In a separate video played in court, another defendant—a staff member of Julius Berger Nigeria assigned to the Presidential Villa—also denied involvement in the alleged plot. He said he was misled and believed the funds he received were related to business dealings.
The staff member admitted receiving large sums of cash, including a “Ghana Must Go” bag said to contain ₦8.8 million, but insisted he was unaware of any coup-related activity.
Court records show that earlier proceedings featured video evidence in which some defendants were allegedly seen discussing coded communications and movements around sensitive government locations, though they denied planning any takeover.
The Federal Government alleges that the accused conspired in September 2025 to overthrow President Tinubu’s administration—an offence punishable under Nigeria’s criminal and anti-terrorism laws.
They are also accused of failing to report knowledge of the alleged plot and of providing indirect support by not alerting security authorities.
All defendants pleaded not guilty when arraigned on April 22 and remain in the custody of the Department of State Services pending trial.
A former Bayelsa State governor and ex-Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, is also named in the charge sheet and is reportedly at large.
The court adjourned proceedings to May 11, 12, and 13 for continuation of the trial.
