The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered an accelerated hearing in the trial of six suspects accused of plotting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration, while journalists were barred from covering the proceedings. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik fixed April 29, April 30, May 4 and May 5 for the speedy trial.
The six defendants, including retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Naval Captain Erasmus Victor and serving Police Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, were arraigned on April 22 on a 13-count charge related to the alleged coup plot.
At the hearing, Attorney General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi told the court the prosecution was ready to call witnesses, but defence counsel sought to argue pending bail applications and raised concerns over limited preparation time.
Justice Abdulmalik overruled requests to hear bail applications first, insisting trial proceedings begin immediately and directing all parties to agree on dates for an expedited hearing due to the gravity of the case.
Meanwhile, security operatives acting on the judge’s directive reportedly barred journalists from the courtroom despite no formal application for a secret trial, raising concerns over media access to the proceedings.