A retired naval captain, Erasmus Victor, has told investigators that he was aware of an alleged 2025 coup plot against President Bola Tinubu's administration but did not report it to security agencies. In a statement contained in investigation records obtained by PREMIUM TIMES, Mr Victor said he discussed the plan multiple times with the suspected mastermind, Nigerian Army Colonel Mohammed Ma'aji, with whom he had served at the Nigerian Defence Academy. He admitted communicating via encrypted messaging and even exchanging jokes about post-coup government appointments, including one where he would be named Chief of Staff. Despite these exchanges, he claimed he never supported the conspiracy and instead tried to dissuade Colonel Ma'aji, who allegedly became radicalised after failing to secure a military promotion around 2023.
Mr Victor, who served as chairman of Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area in Rivers State between 2018 and 2021 under then-governor Nyesom Wike, said Colonel Ma'aji asked him to approach wealthy individuals to finance the operation. Among those named was Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, though Mr Victor stated he never made any attempt to solicit funds. He said he repeatedly assured Ma'aji he was making enquiries but only pretended to assist. According to his statement, Ma'aji declared he was willing to do "anything necessary" even if it cost his life, which Mr Victor interpreted as a clear intention to stage a coup. The colonel allegedly sought about N2 billion for the operation. Mr Victor is now one of six defendants facing trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja over the alleged conspiracy, which security agencies say included plans to assassinate top government officials before seizing power.
Erasmus Victor knew of a plot to overthrow the government and engaged in discussions about it while claiming to oppose it. His failure to alert authorities, despite interpreting Ma'aji's words as a clear threat, raises questions about the credibility of his non-participation claim. The case hinges on distinguishing between passive knowledge and active complicity, especially given his continued communication and unreported financial outreach.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
