Court Reviews Video Evidence in Alleged Coup Plot Against Tinubu

An Abuja Federal High Court spent part of Thursday reviewing video evidence in the ongoing alleged coup plot trial against President Bola Tinubu’s government — with fresh and conflicting details emerging from the proceedings.

One of the defendants, Zekeri Umoru, has now told investigators he was misled into fabricating claims against the government. His lawyers are arguing entrapment, saying their client acted on false assurances from people he believed were working for the state.

The Federal Government has presented its own counter-evidence: video recordings that reportedly show Umoru and other defendants discussing timelines, targets, and financing for the alleged plot. Prosecutors say the footage undermines the entrapment claim.

Thursday’s open court session was a notable departure from the closed-door approach that had marked earlier stages of the trial. Portions of the video were reviewed in open session, giving a rare public window into a case that has largely been conducted behind closed doors.

Justice Fatun Rindan, presiding, said the court would take time to review all evidence before ruling on the prosecution’s request to accelerate the trial. Umoru and two other suspects remain in custody. The case is separate from the ongoing treason proceedings against former Minister Timipre Sylva.

Sources: Legit.ng, The Will News, TheCable