Journalists have been barred from covering the trial of six alleged coup plotters accused of plotting to oust President Bola Tinubu, raising concerns about transparency in a case not officially declared a secret trial. The defendants, including retired Major General Ibrahim Gana and former naval captain Erasmus Victor, were brought into the Federal High Court, Abuja, on Monday under heavy security. They pleaded not guilty to a 13-count charge including treason and terrorism. The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, is leading the prosecution. A former Minister of Petroleum, Timiprye Sylva, remains at large.
Key Points
- Barring journalists from open court undermines public scrutiny of a high-stakes treason trial.
- Citizens cannot independently verify proceedings or the strength of evidence against the accused.
- A retired major general in a wheelchair being prosecuted signals potential fractures in military ranks.
- The absence of transparency risks allegations of selective justice or political motivation.
- An accelerated trial ordered by the court may proceed without public or media oversight.
Watch whether media organisations challenge the exclusion order and if Sylva is apprehended or surrenders to authorities.
Sources: Channels Television (Emmanuella Ekele)
