The Federal Government has brought six individuals before the Federal High Court in Abuja over allegations linked to an alleged attempt to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The defendants, which include a retired senior military officer, a former naval captain, a police inspector, and three civilians, were arraigned on Wednesday under heavy security. They all pleaded not guilty to a 13-count charge covering treason, terrorism, money laundering, and alleged concealment of information relating to the alleged plot.
The case was presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, who ordered an accelerated hearing after the pleas were taken. The court also scheduled April 27 for the consideration of bail applications filed on behalf of the accused persons.
Among those arraigned are retired Major-General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Navy Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim of the Nigeria Police Force, electrician Zekeri Umoru, and Islamic cleric Abdulkadir Sani from Zaria, Kaduna State. Five of the defendants were brought to court by operatives of the State Security Service, while the cleric appeared following a prior court order granting him release.
During proceedings, all the defendants denied the allegations when the charges were read. Some of them also made personal statements in court, insisting they had no involvement in any criminal conspiracy and, in some cases, claiming they were unfamiliar with other accused persons.
One of the defendants disputed allegations concerning financial transactions linked to the case, arguing that funds in his account were lawful and unrelated to any illegal activity. Another also rejected claims of terrorism financing, maintaining that money credited to him was a legitimate personal gift.
Although not formally charged, the name of former Bayelsa State Governor Timipre Sylva appeared in several counts in the charge sheet as an alleged financier. Authorities also listed some of his aides as persons of interest currently under investigation.
The prosecution, filed by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and signed by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), indicated that over 40 individuals, including serving military officers, have been linked to the broader investigation since it began last year.
All the defendants are to remain in the custody of the State Security Service pending the hearing of their bail applications and further court proceedings.
