Six former security officials accused of attempting to overthrow the government of Bola Tinubu have pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, as a Federal High Court in Abuja adjourned proceedings until April 27.
The defendants, including a retired army major-general, are facing 13 counts bordering on treason, terrorism, and financing of terrorism. Prosecutors allege that the group was involved in a plot to violently topple the government last year. Meanwhile, a seventh suspect, said to be a former state governor, is still on the run.
During Wednesday’s arraignment, all six accused persons denied the charges before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik. Following their pleas, the court fixed a new hearing date and granted the prosecution’s request for an accelerated trial, citing the seriousness of the allegations.
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, urged the court to fast-track the case due to its national security implications. The judge agreed shortly after the defendants entered their pleas.
Defence counsel made oral applications for bail, but the court rejected them, directing that formal written applications be submitted instead. The judge also ordered that the accused be remanded in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) pending further proceedings.
The case is considered one of the most significant treason trials since President Tinubu assumed office in 2023, coming amid ongoing security challenges, economic pressures, and political tensions across the country.
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