Federal High Court orders accelerated trial for alleged coup plotters against Tinubu's administration
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Federal High Court in Abuja has mandated an accelerated hearing for six individuals accused of plotting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s government. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik set April 29, April 30, May 4, and May 5 for the trial's commencement and bail application hearings. The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, confirmed the prosecution's readiness with witnesses. While defense counsel for the first defendant, Mohammed Ilayepo, sought a bail hearing, Justice Abdulmalik ruled that the trial would precede any bail considerations. Lawyers for the second, third, and sixth defendants, Paul Erokoro, A.I. Yeru, and N.S. Diri, expressed concerns about the short notice and case complexity. The judge instructed all parties to agree on suitable dates for a speedy trial. Earlier, journalists were barred from covering the proceedings by court officials and Department of State Services operatives. The six defendants, Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani, were arraigned last Wednesday on a 13-count charge including treason, terrorism, and money laundering, to which they pleaded not guilty. A former Bayelsa State Governor, Timipre Sylva, was mentioned in seven counts but is not listed as a defendant, with prosecutors stating he is at large. Previous reports indicated that at least 40 suspects, including military personnel and civilians, were arrested in connection with the alleged p
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