By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed April 29, April 30, May 4, and May 5 for the accelerated trial of six suspects accused of plotting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu, while also scheduling the hearing of their bail applications after ordering that trial proceedings take priority.
Court Orders Accelerated Trial
The court moved swiftly to fast-track the case. Justice Abdulmalik directed all parties to prepare for immediate proceedings. Consequently, she fixed four dates to ensure speedy resolution.
Prosecution Declares Readiness
The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, told the court that the prosecution was fully ready. He confirmed that witnesses were available and prepared to testify.
Defence Raises Concerns
However, defence lawyers expressed concerns about the timeline. Counsel to the first defendant, Mohammed Ilayepo, said his client’s bail application was ready.
Meanwhile, lawyers Paul Erokoro, A. I. Yeru, and N. S. Diri requested more time. They cited short notice and the complexity of the charges.
Court Prioritises Trial Over Bail
Despite objections, Justice Abdulmalik ruled that trial must begin before bail hearings. She also instructed all counsel to meet and agree on workable dates. Afterwards, the court adopted the scheduled timeline.
Charges Against Defendants
The Federal Government arraigned the suspects on multiple charges last week. The defendants include:
- Major General Ibrahim Gana (retd)
- Retired naval captain Erasmus Victor
- Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim
- Zekeri Umoru
- Bukar Goni
- Abdulkadir Sani
All defendants pleaded not guilty to a 13-count charge.
Allegations Include Treason and Terrorism
According to the prosecution, the suspects conspired in 2025 to wage war against the Nigerian state. The charges include treason, terrorism, failure to disclose intelligence, and terrorism financing.
The Office of the Attorney-General filed the charges. Rotimi Oyedepo, Director of Public Prosecutions, signed the charge sheet.
Additional Suspect at Large
The charge also names Timipre Sylva as a suspect. Authorities say he remains at large.
Defendants Remanded in DSS Custody
The court ordered the remand of all defendants in the custody of the Department of State Services. This decision followed the prosecution’s request for secure detention.
Transparency Concerns Emerge
Meanwhile, concerns have grown over transparency. Journalists reportedly could not access the courtroom. As a result, many details of the proceedings remain unclear.
Adjournment and Next Steps
The court adjourned the matter for continued accelerated hearing. Bail applications will be considered later, after trial proceedings begin.
