Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday granted the prosecution’s request for an accelerated hearing in the trial of six persons accused of plotting to overthrow the government of President Bola Tinubu.
The court fixed April 29, April 30, May 4, and May 5 as dates for the commencement of the trial and hearing of bail applications filed by the defendants.
During proceedings, Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), informed the court that prosecution witnesses were ready and available, subject to the court’s convenience.
Counsel to the first defendant, Mohammed Ilayepo, indicated readiness for his client’s bail application. However, Justice Abdulmalik ruled that the substantive trial would begin before any bail applications are considered.
Lawyers to the second, third, and sixth defendants, Paul Erokoro, A.I. Yeru, and N.S. Diri raised concerns over the short notice and the complexity of the case, saying they needed more time to prepare.
The judge then directed all counsel to agree on suitable dates for a speedy trial. The court subsequently fixed the four consecutive dates in late April and early May to fast-track proceedings.
The six defendants, who include retired military officers and others, are facing a 13-count charge bordering on treason, terrorism, failure to disclose security information, and money laundering in connection with the alleged coup plot.
They had earlier pleaded not guilty to the charges. A seventh suspect, a former state governor, remains at large.
The case has been generating significant public interest amid tight security around the proceedings.
By
TheTimes Nigeria
