Six former Nigerian security officials entered not guilty pleas in an Abuja federal court Wednesday after being accused of conspiring to violently remove President Bola Tinubu from power last year.
The defendants face 13 criminal counts including treason, terrorism, and financing terrorist activities. Among those charged is a retired army major-general, while a seventh defendant – a former state governor – has not been apprehended.
Federal Judge Joyce Abdulmalik postponed proceedings until April 27 following the defendants’ denial of all charges during their court appearance.
Nigeria’s Attorney-General and Justice Minister Lateef Fagbemi requested expedited proceedings due to the serious nature of the allegations. Judge Abdulmalik approved the request immediately after the defendants entered their pleas.
When defense attorneys attempted to request bail orally, the judge rejected their approach and directed them to submit written bail motions. She commanded that all defendants remain in Department of State Services custody while awaiting trial.
This case represents the most significant treason charges brought forward since President Tinubu assumed power in 2023, highlighting efforts to strengthen domestic security amid economic challenges, increased Islamic extremist attacks in northern regions, and rising political tensions.
Last October, President Tinubu unexpectedly overhauled the entire military leadership structure in what an administration official characterized as an initiative to strengthen national security.
