The Federal Government’s treason case took a new turn on Tuesday as attention shifted to the alleged role of former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, in the ongoing coup plot trial.
At the Federal High Court in Abuja, where the matter is before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, proceedings were updated with prosecutors outlining the involvement of the six defendants already in custody, while highlighting Sylva’s status as a key figure yet to appear before the court.
According to filings by the prosecution, Sylva is accused of playing a behind-the-scenes role in the alleged conspiracy, including claims that he helped conceal aspects of the plot and provided logistical backing to those directly involved.
Although he has not been arraigned alongside the other defendants, the Federal Government is expected to seek legal steps to compel his appearance in court. His absence has become a central issue in the case, drawing significant public and political attention.
During Tuesday’s session, the court reviewed the charges filed against the defendants, which include treasonable felony, terrorism-related offences, and alleged financial support for the plot against the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The suspects currently before the court include retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired naval officer Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, and police inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, among others.
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The court adjourned proceedings to allow for formal arraignment and for all parties to be properly served, particularly in relation to the defendant still at large.
The charge sheet, signed by Rotimi Oyedepo, alleges that the accused conspired to undermine Nigeria’s constitutional order through coordinated actions involving both military and civilian actors.
Prosecutors insist that the case will proceed in full, with or without the immediate presence of all named defendants, while efforts continue to bring Sylva before the court.
Security remains tight in the Federal Capital Territory as the case develops, with analysts describing Sylva’s alleged involvement as a significant dimension that could shape both the legal and political trajectory of the trial.
Further hearings are expected in the coming days as the court moves toward full arraignment and the commencement of substantive proceedings.