One of the accused, Ex-Minister of State for Petroleum, Timipre Sylva, is at large
Security presence heightened around the Federal High Court Abuja early Wednesday, April 22, 2026 as one of the defendants in the alleged coup plot against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu arrived ahead of his arraignment. Five other accused persons were still being awaited as at the time of filling this report.
A PUNCH report said that the defendant, identified as Abdulkadir Sani, was arrived early at the court premises, reportedly because he is the only one currently not in custody, unlike the other defendants who are being held by authorities.
The Federal Government had two days ago filed a 13-count charge against the defendants bordering on alleged terrorism, conspiracy, and failure to disclose information relating to a planned attempt to overthrow the government.
Also Read:At Last, FG files 13-count charge against Sylva,other coup plotters
Those listed in the charge include a retired Major-General, Mohammed Ibrahim Gana; a retired Navy Captain, Erasmus Ochegobia Victor; a police inspector, Ahmed Ibrahim; Zekeri Umoru; Bukar Kashim Goni; Abdulkadir Sani; and former Minister of State for Petroleum, Timipre Sylva, who is said to be at large.
In the charge, the prosecution alleged that the defendants conspired in 2025 in Abuja to commit acts of terrorism, and to “levy war” against the Nigerian state, in violation of provisions of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Criminal Code.
They were also accused of failing to disclose intelligence about the alleged plot and not taking steps to prevent its execution, despite having knowledge of the plan involving other alleged conspirators.
The defendants are expected to be arraigned before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abuja, where the charges will be formally read and their pleas taken.
