A retired naval captain standing trial over an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has told investigators that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike was allegedly suggested as a possible financier of the purported operation.
The retired officer, Erasmus Victor, however, said he never contacted Wike or sought financial support from him.
The account was contained in investigation records obtained by Premium Times.
Retired officer says he knew about alleged plot
Victor, one of six defendants facing trial over the alleged 2025 coup plot, reportedly told investigators that he was aware of discussions surrounding the alleged plan.
He maintained that he did not support the proposed takeover and said he repeatedly advised the alleged mastermind, Army Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, to abandon the plan.
According to the investigation records, Victor said he communicated with Ma’aji through an encrypted messaging application and discussed aspects of the alleged conspiracy.
Wike allegedly mentioned as possible financier
Victor reportedly told investigators that Ma’aji was searching for wealthy individuals who could provide financial backing for the alleged operation.
Among those allegedly mentioned was Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former governor of Rivers State.
Victor had previously served as chairman of Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area when Wike was governor of Rivers State.
However, Victor said he did not approach Wike and did not attempt to obtain funds from him.
No evidence Wike participated
Importantly, the report does not establish that Wike knew about or participated in the alleged coup plot.
Victor’s account specifically indicates that he never contacted the minister for financial support.
The mention of Wike therefore remains an allegation contained in an investigation record rather than evidence that he financed or supported any alleged coup plan.
Alleged coup case before Federal High Court
The alleged plot has resulted in criminal proceedings against several defendants before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The Federal Government has accused the defendants of offences including treason, terrorism-related offences, failure to disclose security intelligence and alleged terrorism financing.
The defendants are entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty in court.