The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday barred journalists from covering the bail proceedings of six individuals accused of plotting a coup against the administration of Bola Tinubu.
Court officials, supported by operatives of the Department of State Services, directed reporters to leave the courtroom shortly before proceedings commenced.
The directive was reportedly issued ahead of the arrival of the presiding judge, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik.
A court official, who declined to be named, informed journalists that the order came from the judge, while a DSS operative indicated that further clarification would be provided later. The journalists complied and exited the courtroom.
The development followed the arrival of correspondents from various media organisations who had gathered as early as 8:00 a.m. to cover the proceedings but were asked to leave around 9:07 a.m.
The case has attracted significant public attention since the defendants were arraigned last week by the Federal Government over an alleged failed coup attempt.
Those facing 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 attached to the Presidential Villa.
Others are Bukar Goni and Abdulkadir Sani, an Islamic cleric based in Zaria.
The defendants are standing trial on a 13-count charge, including allegations of treason, terrorism, failure to disclose information, and money laundering. They have all pleaded not guilty.
During their arraignment, Justice Abdulmalik ordered an accelerated hearing of the case and fixed April 27 for the consideration of their bail applications. The defendants were also remanded in DSS custody pending further proceedings.
Meanwhile, a former Bayelsa State governor, Timipre Sylva, was mentioned in several counts of the charge but has not been listed as a defendant, as he is reportedly still at large.
Earlier reports indicated that about 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 are being tried separately before a court-martial in Abuja.
The exclusion of journalists from Monday’s proceedings has raised fresh concerns over transparency in the handling of high-profile cases, particularly those involving national security and allegations of treason.
