Court Orders Speedy Trial of Coup Plotters
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. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik directed that the case be heard under a speedy trial procedure and fixed April 29, April 30, May 4 and May 5 for the commencement of trial and hearing of bail applications. According to court proceedings, the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, informed the court that the prosecution was ready with its witnesses, subject to the court’s schedule. Counsel to the first defendant, Mohammed Ilayepo, told the court that his client’s bail application was ready for hearing. However, Justice Abdulmalik ruled that trial proceedings would begin before the consideration of any bail requests. Lawyers representing the second, third, and sixth defendants raised concerns over proceeding immediately, citing short notice and the complexity of the charges. The judge subsequently directed all parties to agree on dates suitable for a speedy trial before fixing the adjourned hearing dates. The six defendants were arraigned last Wednesday by the Federal Government over an alleged failed coup plot. Those standing trial are 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 are facing a 13-count charge bordering on treason, terrorism, failure to disclose information, and money laundering. All defendants pleaded not guilty. In one of the charges, the suspects were accused of conspiring in 2025 to levy war against the state in an attempt to overpower the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The court had earlier ordered their remand in the custody of the Department of State Services pending further proceedings. Meanwhile, former Bayelsa State Governor Timipre Sylva was mentioned in seven of the 13 counts but has not been listed as a defendant. Prosecutors said he remains at large.
Arun
Apr 27, 2026
