Court Orders Speedy Trial for Alleged Coup Plotters

The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, has ordered the acceleration of the trial for six suspects accused of attempting to overthrow the administration of President Bola Tinubu. The court has scheduled the commencement of the trial for April 29, with subsequent hearings set for April 30, May 4, and May 5.

During the proceedings, the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi SAN, informed the court that the prosecution was ready to proceed, although the defense counsel for the first defendant, Moham Ilayepo, indicated that his client's bail application was due for hearing. Justice Abdulmalik ruled that the trial would commence before considering the bail application.

Counsel for the second, third, and sixth defendants, Paul Erokoro, expressed reservations about the short notice given the complex nature of the case. Justice Abdulmalik directed that counsel agree on suitable dates to ensure a speedy trial.