The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered an accelerated hearing in the trial of six suspects accused of plotting to overthrow the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
At the proceedings, the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, informed the court that the prosecution was ready to proceed, with witnesses available subject to the court’s schedule.
Counsel to the first defendant, Mohammed Ilayepo, told the court that his client’s bail application was pending and ready for hearing.
However, the presiding judge, Joyce Abdulmalik, ruled that the trial would commence before any bail applications are considered.
Justice Abdulmalik invoked a speedy trial procedure and fixed April 29, April 30, May 4, and May 5 for the commencement of trial and subsequent hearing of bail applications.
Meanwhile, former Bayelsa State Governor, Timipre Sylva, was named in seven of the 13 charges but has not been listed as a defendant, as prosecutors said he is currently at large.
Earlier reports indicated that at least 40 suspects, including serving and retired military personnel as well as civilians, were arrested in connection with the alleged plot.
Of that number, 36 serving officers have been arraigned before a court-martial at the Guards Brigade Scorpion Mess in Asokoro, Abuja.
