Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has ordered an accelerated hearing in the trial of six suspects accused of plotting to overthrow the administration of Bola Tinubu.
The court fixed April 29, April 30, May 4, and May 5 for the commencement of trial proceedings, as well as hearings on bail applications filed by the defendants.
The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, informed the court that the prosecution is ready to proceed with witnesses, subject to the court’s schedule. However, the judge ruled that the trial would begin before any bail applications are considered.
Some defence counsel raised concerns about inadequate time to prepare, citing the complexity of the case. Nonetheless, the court directed all parties to align on dates to ensure a speedy trial.
The Federal Government had earlier arraigned the defendants—including Major General Ibrahim Gana (retd), Erasmus Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani—on a 13-count charge bordering on treason, terrorism, and related offences. They all pleaded not guilty.
The court also ordered that the defendants be remanded in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) pending trial.
Another individual listed in the charge, Timipre Sylva, is said to be at large.
The case continues to draw attention, particularly following reports that journalists were barred from covering proceedings, raising concerns about transparency.
