Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has granted an accelerated hearing in the trial of six suspects accused of plotting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu's administration. The court has scheduled April 29, April 30, May 4, and May 5 for the commencement of trial proceedings and the hearing of bail applications filed by the defendants.
Prosecution Ready with Witnesses
During proceedings, the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, informed the court that the prosecution had witnesses available, subject to the convenience of the court. This indicates that the government is prepared to move forward with the case expeditiously.
Bail Applications to Follow Trial
Counsel to the first defendant, Mohammed Ilayepo, indicated that his client’s bail application was due for hearing. Justice Abdulmalik, however, ruled that the trial would commence before any bail applications are considered. This decision underscores the court's commitment to a speedy trial process.
Counsel to the second, third, and sixth defendants—Paul Erokoro, A.I. Yeru, and N.S. Diri, respectively—expressed reservations about their readiness to proceed, citing the short notice given to them and the complex nature of the case. Despite these concerns, Justice Abdulmalik directed all counsel to agree on dates suitable for a speedy trial.
Accelerated Hearing Dates Fixed
The court subsequently fixed April 29, April 30, May 4, and May 5 as hearing dates for the accelerated trial. This schedule reflects the judiciary's effort to handle the case promptly while ensuring fair proceedings for all parties involved.
The case has drawn significant public attention due to the serious nature of the allegations, which involve an alleged plot to overthrow a democratically elected government. The accelerated trial aims to resolve the matter efficiently, balancing the rights of the defendants with the need for justice.
