Court Orders Joint Trial in Coup Plot Case Against Six

On a Monday session, the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Judge Joyc Abdulmalik, ordered a joint trial within a trial to assess the voluntariness of statements submitted by six defendants accused of conspiring to overthrow the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The prosecution sought to tender extra-judicial statements linked to a video recording, while the defense, represented by lawyer Olalekan Ojo, argued that the statements were not made voluntarily, citing violations of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) and claims of coercion and torture.

The defense also pointed out discrepancies between the video evidence and written statements. The prosecution, led by Rotimi Oyedepo, opposed the separation of trials, urging the court to conduct a joint trial.

The court has adjourned proceedings until May 12, during which the video evidence will be reviewed. Sheikh Sani Abdulkadir, one of the defendants, admitted to receiving funds for prayer support related to the alleged coup but denied any involvement in the plot.