Villa Worker Testifies in Alleged Coup Plot Trial

Zekeri Umoru, a worker at the Presidential Villa, testified on Tuesday at the Federal High Court in Abuja regarding his involvement in an alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu. He claimed he was misled and denied any knowledge of a coup, stating that he was introduced to a civilian businessman, Hassan Moham, by Inspector Ibrahim, who allegedly facilitated cash payments for construction work.

Umoru recounted receiving payments ranging from N100,000 to N120,000 and mentioned a significant cash deposit of N8.8 million linked to the businessman. Despite the financial transactions, Umoru insisted he was unaware of any coup plans.

The trial, presided over by Justice Joycelyn Abdulmalik, was adjourned to May 11-13, 2024, after defense counsel Michael Numa requested more time to review video evidence. The prosecution, led by Rotimi Oyedepo, urged for an expedited hearing.

The case has raised concerns about broader implications for national security.