Alleged coup plot: Court orders accelerated trial for six defendants

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja has approved an expedited hearing in the case involving six individuals accused of plotting to overthrow the government of President Bola Tinubu.

During proceedings on Monday, the court fixed April 29, April 30, May 4, and May 5 for the commencement of trial and the hearing of bail applications filed by the defendants.

The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), told the court that the prosecution was ready to proceed and had witnesses available, depending on the court’s schedule.

Counsel to the first defendant, Mohammed Ilayepo, informed the court that his client’s bail application was ready for hearing.

However, Justice Abdulmalik ruled that the trial would begin before any bail requests are considered.

Lawyers representing the second, third, and sixth defendants—Paul Erokoro, A.I. Yeru, and N.S. Diri—raised concerns over their preparedness, citing the short notice and the complexity of the case.

In response, the judge directed all parties to agree on suitable dates to ensure a speedy trial. The court subsequently confirmed the earlier dates for the accelerated proceedings.