Cleric Denies Coup Links, Says N10 Million Was for Spiritual Services in Abuja Trial

An Islamic cleric, Sheikh Bukar Kashim Goni, has told the Federal High Court in Abuja that N10 million traced to his bank account was payment for spiritual services and not funding for an alleged plot to overthrow the government of President Bola Tinubu.

Goni is among six defendants standing trial on a 13-count charge bordering on treason, terrorism, and conspiracy filed by the Attorney-General of the Federation.

At the resumed hearing on May 5, 2026, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik reviewed video evidence presented by prosecutors, including financial records allegedly linking the cleric to funds sent by the main accused, a military officer identified as Col. Mohammed Ma’aji.

The Federal Government alleges that the accused persons conspired in September 2025 to plan a coup against the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

However, Sheikh Goni denied any involvement in the alleged plot, insisting that all funds he received were strictly for prayers, spiritual consultations, and charitable purposes. He stated that his interaction with Ma’aji was purely religious, claiming the officer sought spiritual guidance over personal and career issues.

Prosecutors, however, argued that bank records show multiple transactions dating back to March 2023, as well as a ?10 million transfer in October 2024—well before the issues the cleric referenced in his defence.

Investigators also presented messages allegedly involving coded phrases such as “access” and “work tools,” which they said suggested coordination beyond spiritual activities. The cleric rejected these interpretations, maintaining his innocence.

In a separate video shown in court, another defendant, a staff member of Julius Berger Nigeria assigned to the Presidential Villa, also denied involvement, claiming he believed the funds he received were linked to legitimate business dealings. He admitted receiving large cash sums, including a bag containing ?8.8 million, but said he had no knowledge of any coup-related activity.

Court documents indicate that earlier hearings featured video evidence of alleged discussions among the defendants involving sensitive government locations, though they all denied plotting any takeover.

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, was also named in the charge sheet and is currently said to be at large.

The case has been adjourned to May 11, 12, and 13 for continuation of trial proceedings.