Secret Coup File Exposes Shocking Plan to Recruit Repentant Boko Haram Fighters

Fresh details have emerged from documents linked to the alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu, revealing that some of the accused military officers allegedly explored recruiting repentant Boko Haram fighters and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) to strengthen the operation.

The explosive revelations are contained in more than 7,400 pages of investigative documents reportedly obtained by Premium Times. The files include witness statements, encrypted chats, bank records, hotel bookings and other evidence tied to the alleged conspiracy.

The alleged plot was uncovered in September 2025 after the arrest of 16 serving military officers. In the months that followed, about 40 people—including a police officer and several civilians—were detained.

While the military initially described the arrests as disciplinary cases, the Defence Headquarters later confirmed they were connected to an alleged coup attempt. The accused officers are now facing trial before a General Court-Martial, while civilians and retired military personnel are being prosecuted at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Among those standing trial are retired Major-General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Naval Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Police Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Presidential Villa electrician Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni and Islamic cleric Abdulkadir Sani.

Several defendants have challenged the statements attributed to them, insisting they were not made voluntarily. The court has ordered a trial-within-trial to determine whether the statements can be admitted as evidence.

According to the documents, the alleged leader of the plot, Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, was approached by Major Jamilu Ilyasu with a proposal to recruit repentant Boko Haram fighters already participating in military operations, as well as CJTF members.

Ma’aji reportedly told investigators that although the idea was discussed, it was never carried out. He claimed Ilyasu suggested using the former insurgents because they already had access to weapons, but insisted he rejected plans involving improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Ilyasu, in his own statement, reportedly admitted suggesting the recruitment of CJTF members, saying he had contacts in the North-East who could provide experienced fighters if needed.

The documents further suggest that the alleged plotters believed the volunteers’ combat experience and access to firearms could help address manpower shortages.

Meanwhile, the prosecution insists all evidence was lawfully obtained, while the defendants continue to challenge both their recorded statements and interrogation videos as the legal battle unfolds.