Court Bars Journalists From Covering Trial Of Alleged Coup Plotters In Abuja

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has barred journalists from covering the ongoing trial of six alleged coup plotters accused of attempting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu, in a move that has triggered fresh concerns over transparency in the high profile case.

The suspects were brought into court on Monday under heavy security as proceedings continued before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik. Although the trial has not been officially declared a secret hearing, judiciary correspondents were denied access to the courtroom.

The defendants comprising retired senior military officers and security personnel are facing a 13 count charge bordering on alleged treason, terrorism, conspiracy, and related financial crimes.

They all pleaded not guilty when the charges were read. The Federal Government through the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, is prosecuting the case.

The prosecution also listed former Minister of Petroleum Timipre Sylva as being at large in connection with the alleged plot.

Following arraignment, the court ordered accelerated hearing of the case and directed that the defendants be remanded in DSS custody.

The restriction of media access has raised questions among legal and judiciary correspondents especially as the case proceeds without public scrutiny despite its sensitive national security implications.

The matter has been adjourned for continuation of trial and hearing of pending applications.