The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered an accelerated hearing in the trial of six individuals accused of plotting to overthrow the administration of Bola Tinubu.
The directive was issued by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, who invoked a speedy trial procedure and scheduled April 29, April 30, May 4, and May 5 for the commencement of trial and hearing of bail applications.
According to a statement made available to journalists on Monday, the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, informed the court that the prosecution was prepared to proceed, with witnesses on standby subject to the court’s schedule.
Counsel to the first defendant, Mohammed Ilayepo, had earlier indicated readiness to move his client’s bail application. However, Justice Abdulmalik ruled that the trial would begin before any bail requests are entertained.
Lawyers representing the second, third, and sixth defendants —Paul Erokoro, A.I. Yeru, and N.S. Diri — raised concerns over the short notice and complexity of the case. In response, the court directed all parties to agree on suitable dates to ensure a speedy trial before confirming the adjournments.
Earlier, journalists were barred from covering proceedings shortly before the session commenced. Court officials, supported by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), ordered reporters to vacate the courtroom. Although no formal explanation was immediately provided, journalists complied with the directive.
The six defendants were arraigned last Wednesday by the Federal Government over an alleged failed coup attempt. Those standing trial include Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, a retired major-general; Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, a retired navy captain; Ahmed Ibrahim, a police inspector; Zekeri Umoru, an electrician at the Presidential Villa; Bukar Kashim Goni; and Abdulkadir Sani, a cleric based in Zaria.
They face a 13-count charge bordering on treason, terrorism, failure to disclose information, and money laundering. All defendants pleaded not guilty.
In one of the counts, prosecutors alleged that the accused conspired in 2025 to “levy war against the state” in a bid to overthrow the government, an offence punishable under the Criminal Code.
Following their arraignment, the court had initially fixed April 27 for bail hearings and ordered their remand in DSS custody.
Meanwhile, former Bayelsa State Governor, Timipre Sylva, was named in seven of the 13 counts but has not been listed as a defendant. Prosecutors stated that he remains at large.
Earlier reports indicated that at least 40 suspects, including serving and retired military personnel as well as civilians, were arrested in connection with the alleged plot. Of these, 36 serving officers were arraigned before a court-martial convened at the Guards Brigade Scorpion Mess in Asokoro, Abuja.