Six defendants accused of coup plotting in Nigeria pleaded not guilty and were remanded in DSS custody as the court scheduled an accelerated trial.
Six defendants on Wednesday pleaded not guilty to a 13-count charge of alleged terrorism and coup plotting before the Federal High Court in Abuja. The accused, including retired military officers, were charged with conspiring to “levy war” against the Nigerian state alongside others, including Timipre Sylva, who is reportedly at large..
The prosecution, led by Lateef Fagbemi, sought their remand in DSS custody pending trial. Defence counsel raised concerns over access to clients and requested bail consideration. The court ordered an accelerated hearing, adjourning the matter to April 27, 2026, for trial commencement and hearing of bail applications.
During proceedings, delays occurred due to absence of counsel and language barriers requiring interpretation. Some defendants denied links to terrorism, describing funds mentioned as gifts. Meanwhile, relatives appealed for their release, with one stating, “I have four children… Help me save my husband. I can’t raise the children by myself.”