Court orders speedy trial of coup plotters

The Punch newspaper reports on a significant legal development in Nigeria, where the Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered an accelerated hearing for six individuals accused of plotting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu's government. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik's decision to invoke a speedy trial procedure, setting dates from April 29 through May 5, signals the judiciary's intent to expedite the case involving allegations of treason, terrorism, and other serious offenses.

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The development was contained in a statement shared with our correspondent on Monday, indicating that Justice Joyce Abdulmalik invoked a speedy trial procedure and fixed April 29, April 30, May 4, and May 4 for the commencement of the trial and hearing of bail applications.

This move towards a swift trial is particularly noteworthy given the gravity of the accusations, which include conspiring to "levy war against the state." The prosecution, led by the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has indicated readiness with witnesses. However, the defense counsels have raised concerns about the short notice and the complexity of the case, highlighting potential procedural challenges even within an accelerated timeline.

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The directive emanated from the judge, while a DSS operative said he would offer an explanation later.

A particularly contentious aspect of the proceedings, as highlighted by The Punch, was the barring of journalists from covering the court sessions. Court officials, supported by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), enforced the judge's directive, raising questions about transparency and public access to a trial of national importance. This exclusion of the press, despite their early arrival, underscores the sensitivity surrounding the coup plot allegations and the government's approach to managing information related to national security threats. The six defendants, including a retired major-general and a police inspector, have all pleaded not guilty to the 13-count charge.

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They are facing a 13-count charge bordering on treason, terrorism, failure to disclose information, and money laundering, to which they all pleaded not guilty.