An Islamic cleric, Sheikh Bukar Kashim Goni, has told a Federal High Court in Abuja that the N10 million traced to his account was payment for spiritual services, not funding for any alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Goni is among six defendants facing a 13-count charge bordering on treason, terrorism, and conspiracy in a case instituted by the Attorney-General of the Federation.
At the resumed hearing on Tuesday, May 5, the trial judge, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, examined video evidence showing investigators confronting the cleric with financial transactions allegedly linked to the prime suspect, Col. Mohammed Ma’aji.
In his response, Goni denied any involvement in a coup plot, maintaining that the funds he received were strictly for prayers and charitable activities.
He explained that his interaction with the military officer was purely religious, adding that Ma’aji approached him for spiritual support over personal and career-related challenges, including delayed promotions.
However, the prosecution presented bank records indicating that transfers to the cleric dated back to March 2023, earlier than the timeline he provided, with a notable N10 million payment allegedly made in October 2024.
Investigators also raised concerns over certain communications referencing “access” and “work tools,” which they argued suggested possible coordination beyond religious engagements.
Despite the claims, Goni insisted he had no knowledge of any illegal scheme and denied involvement in political or military activities.
In another video presented before the court, a co-defendant who works with Julius Berger Nigeria at the Presidential Villa also denied participating in any plot.
The defendant stated that he believed the funds he received were linked to legitimate business dealings and said he was unaware of any alleged coup plan.
He admitted collecting large sums of cash, including a bag popularly known as “Ghana Must Go,” said to contain N8.8 million, but denied knowledge of any unlawful activity.
Court proceedings also revealed earlier video evidence in which some defendants were allegedly seen discussing coded messages and movements around sensitive government locations, although they denied any intent to stage a takeover.
The Federal Government alleges that the defendants conspired in September 2025 to remove President Tinubu from office, 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 indirectly supporting it by not informing security agencies.
All six defendants pleaded not guilty when they were arraigned on April 22 and are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services pending the outcome of the trial.
A former Bayelsa State governor and ex-Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, was also listed in the charge but is said to be at large.
The court adjourned the case to May 11, 12, and 13 for continuation of the trial.
NAN
