The Federal High Court in Abuja has barred journalists from covering the bail proceedings of six defendants accused of plotting a coup against the government of President Bola Tinubu.
Court officials, backed by operatives of the Department of State Services, directed reporters on Monday to vacate the courtroom shortly before the trial judge, Justice Joyce Abdul Malik took her seat.
A court official said the directive came from the judge, while DSS operatives declined immediate explanation. Journalists, who had arrived as early as 8:00 AM, complied and left the courtroom at about 9:07 AM.
The defendants are standing trial on a 13-count charge bordering on treason, terrorism, failure to disclose information, and money laundering. They all pleaded not guilty.
They include retired military officers, a serving police inspector, a Presidential Villa electrician, and a cleric.
Following their arraignment last week, the court granted accelerated hearing and fixed April 27 for bail consideration, while ordering their remand in DSS custody.
Timipre Sylva, a former Bayelsa State governor, was mentioned in seven of the charges but is not listed as a defendant as he is still at large.
At least 40 suspects were initially arrested in connection with the alleged coup plot, including serving and retired military personnel as well as civilians. Some serving officers have already been arraigned before a court-martial in Abuja.
The restriction on Monday adds to earlier instances where journalists and observers have been asked to leave Justice Abdulmalik’s courtroom, often citing limited space.
The exclusion has raised concerns over transparency in the handling of high-profile national security trials.
RN
