Court Orders Accelerated Trial Of Alleged Coup Plotters, Adjourns Case To April 27
22nd April, 2026 | News
The Federal Government has arraigned several suspects before the Federal High Court over an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu.
The defendants were brought before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on Wednesday, where they faced a 13-count charge bordering on treason, terrorism, and related offences. All those present in court pleaded not guilty.
The prosecution was led by the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, who urged the court to remand the suspects in the custody of the Department of State Services and grant an expedited trial. The court granted the request and scheduled the case for hearing on April 27.
Among those arraigned were retired Major General Ibrahim Gana, retired naval captain Erasmus Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani. A former Minister of Petroleum, Timipre Sylva, was also listed among the defendants but is reportedly at large.
According to the charge filed by the Office of the Attorney-General, the suspects allegedly conspired in 2025 to “levy war against the state” and destabilise Nigeria’s constitutional order. The government also accused them of failing to report intelligence about the alleged plot and of providing support linked to terrorism activities.
Some defendants were further accused of participating in meetings aimed at advancing a political agenda capable of undermining national stability, while others allegedly handled funds tied to terrorism financing, in violation of existing laws.
The case is linked to earlier reports of a failed coup attempt, which authorities later confirmed had involved some military personnel. The development had also sparked public concern, including calls from families of detained suspects for open and transparent judicial proceedings.
Justice Abdulmalik has ordered an accelerated hearing, as the government moves to prosecute the मामले and establish accountability over the alleged conspiracy.