The Federal High Court on Monday barred journalists from covering the bail proceedings of six defendants accused of plotting a coup against the government of President Bola Tinubu.
Court officials, supported by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), instructed reporters to vacate the courtroom shortly before the presiding judge, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, commenced proceedings. An unidentified court official said the directive originated from the judge, while a DSS operative indicated that an explanation would be provided later.
Journalists present comlied with the order and exited the courtroom. Correspondents from various media organisations had arrived at the court as early as 8:00 a.m. but were asked to leave at approximately 9:07 a.m.
The development comes amid heightened public interest in the case. The six defendants were arraigned last Wednesday by the Federal Government over an alleged failed coup.
Those standing trial include Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, a retired major-general; Erasmus Victor, a retired navy captain; Ahmed Ibrahim, a police inspector; and Zekeri Umoru, an electrician at the Presidential Villa. Also charged are Bukar Goni and Abdulkadir Sani, a cleric based in Zaria.
The defendants face a 13-count charge bordering on treason, terrorism, failure to disclose information, and money laundering. All have pleaded not guilty.
Following their arraignment, Justice Abdulmalik ordered an accelerated hearing and fixed April 27 for the determination of their bail applications. The defendants were also remanded in DSS custody.
A former Governor of Bayelsa State, Timipre Sylva, was mentioned in seven of the 13 counts but has not been listed as a defendant and is reportedly still 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 these, 36 serving officers have been arraigned before a court-martial sitting at the Guards Brigade Scorpion Mess in Asokoro, Abuja.
Monday’s restriction is not the first instance of limited media access in Justice Abdulmalik’s courtroom. Court officials have, on several occasions, asked journalists and observers to leave during proceedings, often citing space constraints. However, accredited reporters have at times also been denied access despite proper identification.
The exclusion of journalists from the proceedings has raised fresh concerns about transparency in the handling of high-profile criminal cases, particularly those involving allegations of treason and national security.
