Revealed: Secret Messaging Apps Used by Alleged Coup Conspirators

In the high-stakes investigation surrounding an alleged coup plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s government in Nigeria, the choice of communication methods has proven to be a critical element. While some individuals involved in the alleged conspiracy utilized common platforms like WhatsApp, a significant detail emerged with the use of Zangi, a lesser-known messaging application explicitly designed for privacy and secure communication.

The distinction between these platforms is crucial. WhatsApp, a globally dominant messaging service, is widely familiar. Zangi, however, differentiates itself through an unwavering focus on private communication. The company emphasizes that it does not store users’ communication histories on its servers; instead, data is stored locally on users' devices. Furthermore, Zangi boasts end-to-end encryption by default, ensuring messages and calls are protected from unauthorized access. A unique feature is that registration does not require a mobile telephone number; users are assigned a private Zangi number, a feature WhatsApp developers are reportedly in the process of incorporating.

This deliberate choice of platforms was not arbitrary. Against the backdrop of a plot allegedly busted in September last year, these applications transcended mere communication tools to become vital leads for investigators. They aided in reconstructing the conspirators’ plans and identifying individual roles. Retired navy captain Erasmus Victor, who faces 13 counts including treason in connection with the alleged plot, provided insights into the introduction of Zangi. In his extrajudicial statement to military investigators, Mr. Victor detailed how suspected mastermind Mohammed Ma’aji, a Nigerian Army colonel, introduced him to Zangi, deeming it more secure than conventional calls. Mr. Victor downloaded the app specifically to communicate with Ma’aji and Shamsuddeen Bappah, a serving lieutenant colonel, underscoring the targeted use of the secure platform.

The emphasis on encryption, while formidable, does not render communication records impenetrable. End-to-end encryption primarily prevents unauthorized interception during transmission. It does not, however, erase information stored on physical devices. Therefore, for platforms like Zangi, where communication history is held locally, investigators place increased importance on securing the actual phones used by participants rather than relying on messaging companies for central archives. Evidential proof filed in support of the prosecution at the court martial and Federal High Court in Abuja includes printouts of phone messages exchanged between suspects.

A phone can harbor a wealth of information beyond messages, including contacts, photographs, files, and notifications. Information regarding the timing and participants of communications can also be extracted, proving invaluable in investigations focused on reconstructing relationships. A communication trail, even if incomplete, gains significant meaning when juxtaposed with financial records, movements, meetings, witness accounts, and other electronic evidence. Thus, the choice of an encrypted application, while interesting, is not necessarily decisive in thwarting investigations.

Currently, Mr. Victor and his co-defendants have denied the charges and have challenged the admissibility of statements obtained during the investigation, alleging they were extracted inappropriately. The prosecution has rejected these claims, urging the court to admit the statements as exhibits. The court’s ruling on this matter is pending, and all claims, including Mr. Victor’s account, remain subject to proof, not yet amounting to guilt.