News reports that Gana said his name was only linked to the case due to routine communication with a former military colleague, and not because of any subversive activity.

He made the denial while being questioned by a multi-agency investigative panel probing an alleged conspiracy involving serving and retired military officers as well as civilians.

Investigators alleged that his name appeared on a financial record linked to suspected coup financing, including a reported ₦2 million transfer. Although he confirmed receiving the money, Gana maintained it was a personal gesture with no connection to any illegal activity.

Earlier, the Nigerian Army informed a Federal High Court in Abuja that it uncovered what it described as a credible plot to overthrow President Tinubu’s administration. The case involves six defendants facing a 13-count charge bordering on treason, terrorism, and money laundering, including Gana, a retired naval captain, a serving police inspector, and three civilians. Former Bayelsa State Governor and ex-Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, was also listed as being at large.

Appearing in recorded interrogation footage, Gana said he had lived a quiet life since retiring from the military in 2010 after 35 years of service, most recently as Chief of Defence Logistics. He added that he had remained engaged in farming and had no history of misconduct since leaving service.

He acknowledged a long-standing acquaintance with one of the accused, Col. Ma’aji, dating back to their time at the Nigerian Defence Academy, adding that their post-retirement interactions were limited to social and business contacts. He also admitted receiving financial assistance from him on different occasions, including ₦2 million during personal and family challenges.

Addressing allegations of WhatsApp messages linked to the case, Gana said he often forwarded messages without reading them and insisted he did not originate any of the content being investigated. He maintained that most of the materials were already circulating online.

“I never knew he was planning a coup,” he said, stressing that he does not support military rule and believes such an era has passed.

Gana also expressed frustration over being implicated, insisting he was being unfairly targeted despite having no role in any alleged conspiracy. He concluded by firmly denying ever discussing or supporting any attempt to destabilize the government.