Fresh concerns over transparency have emerged after journalists were barred from covering bail proceedings for six defendants accused of plotting a coup against President Bola Tinubu’s government.
Tension reportedly rose at the Federal High Court on Monday when court officials, backed by operatives of the Department of State Services, ordered reporters out of the courtroom shortly before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik began proceedings.
According to reports, journalists from several media organizations who had arrived as early as 8 a.m. were directed to leave around 9:07 a.m., with court officials reportedly saying the order came from the judge.
The reporters complied and exited the courtroom, leaving the highly anticipated proceedings out of public view.
The development has triggered concern given the significant public interest surrounding the case.
The six defendants standing trial include retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Navy Captain Erasmus Victor, police inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Presidential Villa electrician Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Goni and Islamic cleric Abdulkadir Sani.
They are facing a 13-count charge bordering on treason, terrorism, money laundering, and failure to disclose information.
All six defendants have pleaded not guilty.
Following their arraignment last week, Justice Abdulmalik granted an accelerated hearing, fixed Monday for bail applications, and ordered the defendants remanded in DSS custody.
The case has attracted even more attention because former Bayelsa State governor Timipre Sylva was reportedly mentioned in several counts, though he was not listed as a defendant and is said to be at large.
Earlier reports also indicated that at least 40 suspects, including serving and retired military officers as well as civilians, were arrested over the alleged failed plot.
The exclusion of journalists from the courtroom has now raised fresh questions about openness in the handling of such a sensitive national security case.
It is also reportedly not the first time reporters have been denied access during proceedings in Justice Abdulmalik’s courtroom, with restrictions previously attributed to limited space.
But with a treason case of this magnitude, Monday’s development has intensified debate over transparency, press access, and public scrutiny in high-profile criminal trials.
