The Digest:
An Islamic cleric, Sheikh Bukar Kashim Goni, has told a Federal High Court in Abuja that over N10 million transferred to his bank account from the alleged mastermind of a coup plot was for "prayers and charitable purposes." Sheikh Goni is one of six defendants standing trial over an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu's administration. In video evidence played in court on Tuesday, he insisted his relationship with Colonel Mohammed Ma'aji, the principal suspect, was based on religious interactions and requests for spiritual support over promotion delays. Investigators, however, pointed to financial records showing transfers as early as March 2023, months before the alleged promotion issues.
Key Points:
- The cleric denies any involvement in the alleged coup plot.
- He claims all funds were for prayers and charity, not political or military activities.
- Investigators questioned discrepancies in his timeline and transaction records.
- Another defendant, a Presidential Villa worker, admitted receiving N8.8 million in a "Ghana Must Go" bag but claimed he was misled.
- Trial continues on May 11, 12, and 13.
Watch for further evidence and testimony as the trial resumes next week.
Sources: Vanguard News
